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Definition of ballpoint

ballpoint

/ˈbɔːl.pɔɪnt/
ball · point
Plural:ballpoints
•
Adjective:ballpoint
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ballpoint Lexical Profile

ballpoint Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to or equipped with a writing tip that features a small rolling ball to dispense ink.

Example

"She signed the official document with a ballpoint pen rather than a fountain pen."

• noun

1

A pen that dispenses ink over a metal ball at its point.

Example

"He reached into his pocket and pulled out a cheap plastic ballpoint to jot down the phone number."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ballpoint

• Nearby Words

ballot
ballpark
ballplayer
ballpoint
ballroom
balls
ballsiness

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-20th century as a shortened form of 'ballpoint pen,' directly referencing the small steel, brass, or tungsten carbide ball at the writing tip that rolls to dispense ink.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ballpoint. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ballpoint
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