What does throw mean?
Throw is a versatile English verb describing the act of propelling something through the air, usually with a quick movement of the hand or arm. It can suggest a casual toss, as in throwing a ball, or a forceful movement, as in throwing a stone. The word also has figurative uses that mean rejecting, discarding, causing confusion, or expressing something abruptly: someone may throw away an idea, throw off an opponent, or throw a glance. In informal contexts, throw can refer to a cast of dice. As a noun, it refers to an act of throwing, the distance or extent of something thrown, or a single dice roll. Throw is especially useful because it combines a plain physical meaning with many common idiomatic and metaphorical applications. Its straightforward form makes it suitable for formal writing as well as conversation, while its figurative uses often carry connotations of speed, force, rejection, or emotional expression.
To propel something through the air with a quick movement of the hand or arm; to hurl or discard something; or, figuratively, to cause someone or something to fall, become confused, or be rejected.
"The runner threw himself to the ground to avoid the tackle."
The verb has both literal and figurative uses, ranging from neutral descriptions of physical action to informal expressions of rejection, emotional display, or deception.
An act or instance of throwing; the distance or extent covered by something thrown; or a single cast or roll of dice.
"The discus throw was the highlight of the competition."
The noun is less frequent than the verb and is especially associated with throwing sports, casting, and informal references to dice.
The plural is used for separate instances or acts of throwing, and for throws in athletic or dice-related contexts.
"The pitcher recorded several impressive throws during the game."
Throw comes from an Old English word associated with twisting or turning, giving the modern verb an unexpectedly tactile history.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How throw is actually used
The word is neutral in its basic physical sense but can sound forceful or careless in figurative uses, especially in phrases such as “throw away” and “throw out.” “Throw” is widely used in both formal and informal English.
Easily confused with throw
“Throw” is a verb meaning to propel or discard something, whereas “through” is primarily a preposition meaning from one side or end to the other, or an adverb meaning to the far side.