1909, proprietary name (Skee-Ball Alley Company, Philadelphia, Pa., U.S.), the first element said to represent the old alternative spelling of ski (v.).

Skee ball bowling, in which the ball is jumped or skeed into the pockets in the same manner as a skee-jumper rises from the bump in his flight, is a new and unique hand-ball game that seems destined to great popularity. [Popular Mechanics, July 1909]

type of fungus, 1640s, from puff + ball (n.1). So called for discharging a cloud of spores when disturbed.

also kickball, children's game, 1854; see kick (v.) + ball (n.1).

also ballclub, "association of players of a ball game," 1845, from ball (n.1) + club (n.) in the "social organization" sense.

also cannon ball, "iron ball to be shot from a cannon," 1660s, from cannon (n.) + ball (n.1). Earlier in this sense was cannon-shot (1590s). As a type of dive, from 1905.

1874, "method of lessening friction by surrounding a shaft with loose balls;" see ball (n.1) + bearing (n.). They "bear" the friction.

"ivory ball used in the game of pool," by 1871, from pool (n.2) + ball (n.1).

"hod-carrier," 1580s, from hod + man (n.).

"torch-carrier," c. 1600; see torch (n.). Meaning "torch singer" attested by 1940.

1943, "aircraft carrier," U.S. Navy, from flat (adj.) + top (n.). As a style of haircut, from 1956.