ˈvɔlɪ n. & v. --n. (pl. -eys) 1 a
the simultaneous discharge of a
number of weapons. b the bullets etc. discharged in a volley. 2 (usu. foll. by of) a
noisy emission of oaths etc. in
quick succession. 3
Tennis the
return of a ball in
play before it touches the ground. 4
Football the kicking of a ball in play before it touches the ground. 5 Cricket a a ball pitched
right up to the
batsman or the stumps
without bouncing. b the pitching of the ball in
this way. --v. (-eys, -eyed) 1 tr. (also absol.) Tennis & Football return or
send (a ball) by a volley. 2 tr. & absol. discharge (bullets,
abuse, etc.) in a volley. 3 intr. (of bullets etc.) fly in a volley. 4 intr. (of guns etc.)
sound together. 5 intr.
make a sound like a volley of
artillery. øøvolleyer n. [F vol÷e ult. f. L volare fly]