three-pointer

noun

three-point·​er ˈthrē-ˈpȯin-tər How to pronounce three-pointer (audio)
: a basketball shot or field goal from beyond the three-point line

Examples of three-pointer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Toronto's Marina Mabrey led the Tempo with 36 points on 12-of-19 shooting, including seven three-pointers, keeping the game within reach through the third quarter. — Christopher Harris, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026 Johannes took full advantage of her extended reserve minutes, pouring in a career-high 27 points on seven made three-pointers. — Fiifi Frimpong, New York Daily News, 9 Aug. 2026 Bridget Carleton hit seven three-pointers, scored 24 points and grabbed 11 rebounds for the Fire (11-19), who lost their fifth straight, four times allowing 100-plus points. — Los Angeles Times, 2 Aug. 2026 The post showcased some of Clark’s best plays, including a coast-to-coast and-1, one of her four steals leading to a transition three, and of course, her last three-pointer to give the Fever the lead for good. — Jon Root Outkick, FOXNews.com, 18 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for three-pointer

Word History

First Known Use

1962, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of three-pointer was in 1962

Rhymes for three-pointer

See All Rhymes for three-pointer

Browse Nearby Words

three-ply
three-pointer
three-point landing
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Three-pointer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/three-pointer. Accessed 11 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

three-pointer

noun
: a basketball shot or field goal from beyond the three-point line
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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