Golfing Terms
Golf, a sport rich in tradition and skill, comes with its own unique set of terms and jargon that can seem daunting to newcomers. Here are just a few of specific golf terms that you may hear at the golf course.
- Ace — A hole in one.
- Address — The stance of the golf player before hitting the ball.
- Albatross — Three under par for the hole - e.g a hole in one on a par 4. (see also bird terms)
- Birdie — One under par for the hole. (see also bird terms)
- Bogey — One stroke over par for a hole.
- Caddie — The person who is employed to carry the clubs and to advise on shot selection
- Cup — another name for the hole.
- Divot — a small piece of earth that is scooped up when an iron shot is played correctly.
- Dogleg — a hole with a sharp bend between the tee and green.
- Draw — A controlled shot that curves slightly left (for right-hander)
- Eagle — Two under par for the hole - e.g a hole in one on a par 3, or a two on a par 4. (see also bird terms).
- Fade — A controlled shot that curves slightly right (for right-handers).
- Fore — The warning shout to the players or spectators in front when a shot is played.
- Handicap — A system used in amateur games, where bonus strokes are used to enable players of unequal ability to play on equal terms.
- Par — The standard number of strokes set for each hole.
- Pin — another name for the flag placed in the hole.
- Short Game — shots played around and on the putting green.
- Nineteenth Hole — The name of the bar in the clubhouse.
- Open — A tournament open to all players, both amateur and professionals.
Related Pages
- Basic Rules of Golf
- Why birds for golf terms?
- Essential Golf Terms Every Sports Enthusiast Should Know
- Dictionary of Sporting Terms
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