Meaning of the word "ball up" in English

What does "ball up" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

ball up

US /bɔːl ʌp/

UK /bɔːl ʌp/

to make something into a round shape

Example:

•

He balled up the paper and threw it in the trash.

•

She balled up her fists, ready to fight.

Synonym:

crumple wad clench fist

(informal) to make a mess of something; to bungle or spoil something

Example:

•

I really balled up that presentation.

•

Don't ball up the whole project with your mistakes.

Synonym:

mess up bungle spoil botch screw up