ricochet Definition
- 1a shot or hit that rebounds off a surface
- 2the action or movement of a bullet, shell, or other projectile when it hits a surface and bounces off at an angle
Using ricochet: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ricochet" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The bullet ricocheted off the wall and hit the target.
Example
The stone ricocheted across the water several times before sinking.
Example
The ball ricocheted off the defender's foot and went out of bounds.
ricochet Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with ricochet
a phenomenon in which a bullet or other projectile changes direction after hitting a surface, causing damage to unintended targets
Example
The police warned against using high-powered rifles in urban areas due to the risk of the ricochet effect.
a cartoon character who is a hyperactive and quick-moving rabbit with the ability to bounce and ricochet off surfaces
Example
Ricochet Rabbit was a popular cartoon character in the 1960s.
Example
The sniper used a ricochet shot to hit the target from behind cover.
Origins of ricochet
from French 'ricocher', meaning 'to skip'
Summary: ricochet in Brief
The term 'ricochet' [ˈrɪkəʃeɪ] refers to a shot or hit that rebounds off a surface, such as a bullet or stone. It can also refer to the action or movement of a projectile when it hits a surface and bounces off at an angle. Examples include 'The bullet ricocheted off the wall and hit the target.' and 'The ball ricocheted off the defender's foot and went out of bounds.'