overspin

Etymology

Definitions

1. 1

   An excessive amount of spin applied to a projectile such that its nose does not turn down…

   An excessive amount of spin applied to a projectile such that its nose does not turn down at the summit of the trajectory.

   • Jumping from side to side like a cat, three times he volleyed fine volleys of his opponents, and at length netted a magnificent lift-drive by Wilding the overspin of which made it dive for the ground.
2. 2

   A rotational motion, especially that given to a ball, in which the upper surface spins in…

   A rotational motion, especially that given to a ball, in which the upper surface spins in the direction of motion; topspin;top.

   • What is wanted is just the reverse - i.e top or overspin, which causes the ball to revolve in the direction in which it is going.
3. 3

   To spin too much or too far.

   • In my enthusiasm I overspun the handle of the microfilm reading machine and went a few pages further than I intended.

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