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.
Derivatives:
volleyer n.
Etymology: F vol{eacute}e ult. f. L volare fly