# falling leaf

> English word · Noun

## Definitions
1. An aerobatic maneuver, a controlled stall that begins to induce a spin which is then countered with the rudder.
2. A dated kicking technique used to put the ball into a swaying movement that makes it harder to estimate its trajectory.

## Etymology
So called from the gradual "drifting" motion like a leaf falling from a tree.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/falling-leaf