VocabDictionary

rugby

/ˈrʌɡ.bi/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A team game played with an oval ball that may be kicked or carried, and where handling and tackling are key components, existing primarily in two main codes: rugby union and rugby league.

Example Sentences:
  • He suffered a shoulder injury while playing rugby for the university team.
  • Rugby is immensely popular in countries like New Zealand, South Africa, and Wales.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “rugby”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Named after Rugby School in Warwickshire, England, where the sport originated in the first half of the 19th century. According to popular legend, the game was invented in 1823 when William Webb Ellis, a pupil at the school, disregarded the rules of football (soccer) and picked up the ball and ran with it during a match.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'rug' being thrown around on a 'by' (busy) field to remember 'rugby'.

Rhyming Words

Frequently Asked Questions About “rugby

1. What is the meaning of “rugby” in English?

In English, rugby (noun) is defined as: “A team game played with an oval ball that may be kicked or carried, and where handling and tackling are key components, existing primarily in two main codes: rugby union and rugby league.”.

2. How do you use “rugby” in a sentence?

He suffered a shoulder injury while playing rugby for the university team.

3. What are English synonyms of “rugby”?

Common synonyms include:rugby football,rugger

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “rugby”?

Named after Rugby School in Warwickshire, England, where the sport originated in the first half of the 19th century. According to popular legend, the game was invented in 1823 when William Webb Ellis, a pupil at the school, disregarded the rules of football (soccer) and picked up the ball and ran with it during a match.