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Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the basics or a seasoned player aiming to expand your knowledge, this article covers essential terms and concepts to help you navigate the world of table tennis with confidence. Also check out our list of what Table Tennis called around the world.

Is it a bat?

In table tennis, the equipment used to strike the ball is commonly referred to as a "paddle" or a "bat." These terms are interchangeable and describe the flat, rectangular instrument held by players to make shots during gameplay. Additionally, the term "racket" or "racquet" is also used in some regions to describe the same piece of equipment. Regardless of the terminology used, the primary function of the paddle remains consistent—to propel the ball across the table with precision and control.

More able tennis terms you may come across

• Backhand: A stroke made by hitting the ball with the back side of the paddle/bat on the non-dominant hand side of the player's body.
• Backspin: A backward rotation applied to the ball, causing it to float or bounce backward after crossing the net.
• Block: A defensive stroke used to return the opponent's shot with minimal motion, often executed close to the table.
• Chop: A defensive stroke executed with a downward, slicing motion to impart backspin on the ball.
• Counterattack: A quick offensive shot executed in response to an opponent's attack, intended to catch the opponent off guard.
• Dead Ball: A ball that has lost its spin and bounce, typically resulting from a soft return or mishit shot.
• Deuce: A tie score of 10-10, requiring one player to win by two points to secure the game
• Drop Shot: A soft, delicate shot aimed to land short on the opponent's side of the table, often used to disrupt rhythm or surprise the opponent.
• Footwork: The movement of a player's feet to position themselves optimally for shots and maintain balance during play.
• Forehand: A stroke made by hitting the ball with the front side of the paddle (bat) on the dominant hand side of the player's body.
• Kill Shot: A powerful offensive shot aimed directly at the opponent, often executed close to the table.
• Let: A stoppage of play due to interference or an obstruction during a point, resulting in a replay of the point.
• Loop: A powerful offensive stroke involving a large, upward swing motion to generate topspin.
• Lob: A high, defensive stroke used to return an opponent's smash or aggressive shot, usually resulting in a high, arching trajectory.
• Rally: A sequence of shots exchanged between players during a point.
• Serve: The act of putting the ball into play by hitting it diagonally across the net to the opponent's side of the table.
• Sidespin: A lateral rotation applied to the ball, causing it to curve sideways during flight.
• Smash: An aggressive offensive stroke executed with a downward motion, usually used to attack high balls or weak returns.
• Spin: The rotation applied to the ball by the player's paddle, resulting in different trajectories and bounces.
• Topspin: A forward rotation applied to the ball, causing it to dip downward quickly after crossing the net.

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• Rules of Table Tennis
• What table Tennis is called around the world
• Equipment for Table Tennis
• Fitness for Table Tennis
• Anthropometry for Table Tennis
• List of Table Tennis Polls
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