'ball' originates from Old Norse, specifically the word 'bǫllr', where 'bǫllr' meant 'a round object'.

'bǫllr' changed from Old Norse word 'bǫllr' and eventually became the modern English word 'ball'.

Initially, it meant 'a round object', but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'a spherical object used in games' and 'a formal dance event'.