# maul

/ˈmɔɫ/ (US) · /mˈɔːl/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/maul
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a large, heavy club used in the game of rugby. It is used to move the ball forward when the team is in a crowd of players.

For teachers: a heavy club used in rugby to move the ball forward during a scrum or a maul. Often used to describe the collective group of players involved in the action.

## Examples

- The team used the maul to win back possession.
- After the ball was knocked out of the hands, the forwards formed a maul to protect the ball and advance.
- The coach emphasized that maintaining a strong maul is essential for securing the ball in the tightest of defensive lines during the final minutes of the match.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.