English Reference
noun

bowler

n.
US /ˈboʊɫɝ/ UK /bˈəʊlɐ/ bowler UK spelling bowlers

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Sport

    the player in cricket who throws the ball to the batter.

    the player who delivers the ball to the batsman. In professional contexts, bowlers are often categorised by their speed or style, such as 'fast' or 'spin' bowlers.

    Simple

    The bowler ran up to the wicket and threw a very fast ball.

    In context

    The opening bowler struggled to find his rhythm in the first session, conceding several boundaries to the aggressive top-order batsmen.

  2. 02 A2 Elementary Sport

    a person who plays the game of bowling, where you roll a heavy ball at pins.

    an individual who participates in the sport of ten-pin bowling or lawn bowls.

    Simple

    The professional bowler managed to get three strikes in a row.

    In context

    Even an amateur bowler can improve their score significantly by mastering the correct footwork and release technique.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate British English

    a hard, round black hat that was popular for businessmen in the past.

    a sturdy, felt hat with a rounded crown and narrow brim, traditionally associated with British civil servants and businessmen.

    Simple

    The old man in the movie wore a smart suit and a black bowler.

    In context

    While the bowler remained a staple of London city attire for decades, it is now rarely seen outside of formal ceremonies or period dramas.

After the first-Test win at Headingley, captain Joe Root said his pace bowlers "do not know how good they can be" and praised the variety they offer.

BBC News· 28 Aug 2026

It also allowed him to ensure the ball was always returned to the bowler via their captain.

BBC News· 19 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated