hardball

English

Etymology

hard +‎ ball

Noun

hardball (countable and uncountable, plural hardballs)

1. (sports) In baseball, a type of ball and baseball game, as opposed to softball.
2. Tough or ruthless behavior, especially in combat, politics or business.

Adjective

hardball (comparative more hardball, superlative most hardball)

1. Being or exhibiting tough or ruthless behavior, especially in combat, politics or business.

Derived terms

• play hardball