How Do You Spell JAI ALAI?

Pronunciation: [d͡ʒˈa͡ɪ ɐlˈa͡ɪ] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "jai alai" can be a bit confusing due to its origin from the Basque Country. The word is pronounced as /ˈhaɪ əˌlaɪ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "j" is actually pronounced as a "h" sound like in "hat", while the "ai" combination is pronounced as a single vowel sound like in "eye". The "alai" part is pronounced with a long "a" sound like in "pay" and a long "i" sound like in "pie". So, the word is spelled as "jai alai", but pronounced as "haɪ əˌlaɪ".

JAI ALAI Meaning and Definition

1. Jai alai, a traditional Basque sport originating in Spain, is a fast-paced game played with a ball using a long curved basket (cesta), usually made of wicker or similar materials, that is attached to the player's arm. The objective of the game is to hurl the ball against the front wall, which has been vulcanized with a special coating, in a way that makes it difficult for the opponent to catch and return it. Jai alai is typically played in a three-walled court known as a fronton, with players taking turns to serve and to receive the ball on the bounce-back. It is often considered as one of the fastest ball sports in the world, with balls being returned at incredibly high speeds, reaching up to 188 mph (302 km/h).

   Jai alai gained significant popularity during the 20th century, especially in Latin American countries like Spain, Mexico, and the Philippines. Additionally, it has also been introduced to several other countries where it has become a popular spectator sport due to its exciting and dynamic nature. Betting on jai alai matches is also common, as spectators place bets on which player or team they believe will win.

   Due to its speed, skill requirements, and the use of a unique curved basket, jai alai is often characterized as a combination of tennis, racquetball, and squash. The game's origins date back centuries, evolving from rural Basque customs, and it continues to thrive as a sport with strong ties to Basque cultural heritage.

Common Misspellings for JAI ALAI

• hai alai
• nai alai
• kai alai
• iai alai
• uai alai
• jzi alai
• jsi alai
• jwi alai
• jqi alai
• jau alai
• jaj alai
• jak alai
• jao alai
• ja9 alai
• ja8 alai
• jai zlai
• jai slai
• jai wlai

Etymology of JAI ALAI

The word "jai alai" has its origins in the Basque language, specifically from the words "jai" meaning festival or merry-making, and "alai" meaning merry or happy. Together, "jai alai" translates to "merry festival" or "happy festival" in Basque. The sport of jai alai originated in the Basque region and this name reflects its festive nature.

Similar spelling words for JAI ALAI

• jailed,
• jail,
• joe ely,
• koala,
• alih jey,
• gaily,
• will jay,
• jails,
• all jaw.