Search Dictionary
Definition of ballsy

ballsy

/ˈbɔːl.zi/
ball · sy
Adverb:ballsily
JUMP TO:

ballsy Lexical Profile

ballsy Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Determined, courageous, and spirited, especially in a way that is bold, brash, or disregards risk.

Example

"Launching an independent startup to compete directly with industry giants was a ballsy move."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ballsy
Antonyms
View all antonyms for ballsy

Word Nuance & Usage

Because 'ballsy' derives from anatomical slang for testicles, it is considered mildly vulgar or overly informal in polite, academic, or formal professional settings; 'gutsy' or 'audacious' are safer alternatives.

• Rhymes for ballsy

• Nearby Words

ballroom
balls
ballsiness
ballsy
ballyhoo
balm
balmily

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in mid-20th-century American slang from the plural noun 'balls' (slang for testicles, figuratively associated with nerve and virility) plus the adjectival suffix '-y'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ballsy. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ballsy
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.