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Common Golf Slang Terms

Nov. 1 2022 Beginner Tips By Dever Golf Car Sales

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Every type of hobby or occupation has its own jargon, and golf is no exception. From game-playing terminology to inside jokes, there are plenty of interesting bits of golf slang for you to learn if you’re new to the game. Here are some of the most common words and phrases you’ll hear while you’re golfing.

Scoring

  • Albatross: Three under par (a rare achievement).
  • Birdie: One under par.
  • Bogey: One over par.
  • Buzzard or Double Bogey: Two over par.
  • Eagle: Two under par.
  • Handicap: A number representing a golfer’s ability to play the game.
  • Par: The number of strokes needed to complete a hole on a golf course, which has been predetermined. Going over this number lowers your score, while going under it raises your score.

On the Green

  • Can: The cup on the green that the ball is hit into.
  • Casual Water: Build-up of water on the green that isn’t a water hazard; typically, this occurs after a heavy rain. The golfer is permitted to move the ball out of casual water without penalty.
  • Cat Box: Sand bunker.
  • Dance Floor: The green.
  • Duff: A shot that isn’t good.
  • Fore: What players shout when their ball is heading towards somebody; it basically means “heads up!”
  • Jungle: A ball that’s been hit into a rough deep area on the course.
  • Lie: The position or location of the golf ball on the course.
  • 19th Hole: A tongue-in-cheek term for the clubhouse bar.
  • Out of Bounds (OB): The part of the course marked with white stakes where play is not permitted.

Player Terms

  • Dawn Patrol: Any golfers who are playing as the sun rises.
  • Duffer or Hacker: An inexperienced golf player.
  • Playing Through: When a group of players passes by another group of players that is going more slowly.
  • Quick: A rushed swing.
  • Scratch: A golfer with zero handicap.
  • Yips: The inability to make short putts due to nervousness.
  • Zone: When a player is “in the zone,” they are playing very well.

Come on down to see us at one of our Kentucky locations to check out our selection of new and used golf carts for sale. Dever Golf Car Sales & Rentals proudly serves our Kentucky customers in the cities of Lexington and Louisville.