What is a five-second rule? Here are some definitions.
Noun
Any rule that allows or prohibits certain behavior for five seconds after some event, especially:
(informal) The belief that food dropped on the ground may safely be eaten provided it is picked up within five seconds of touching the ground.
(basketball) A rule that a closely-guarded player cannot hold the ball for more than five seconds without dribbling, passing, rolling, or shooting the ball.
(basketball) A rule that a player who throws in the ball from out of bounds must get rid of it in less than five seconds.