Birdie? Eagle? If you’re new to golf, the terminology can be incredibly confusing. We’re here to help. Below are the definitions of 15 common golf terms.
- Ace: Also known as a hole in one. Getting the ball in the hole in one stroke.
- Birdie: A score of one stroke under par.
- Bogey: A score of one stroke over par.
- Caddie: Person who carries the clubs and offers advice to the player.
- Double bogey: A score of two strokes over par.
- Double eagle: A score of three strokes under par.
- Driver: Golf club that is usually used on a tee. It hits the longest drives.
- Eagle: A score of two strokes under par.
- Fairway: Area between the tee and the green.
- Green: Area around the hole and flag. The grass is especially short for better putting.
- Iron: Golf club for medium-range distances.
- Mulligan: Redoing a shot; not allowed in official play.
- Par: Number of strokes a player is expected to use on a given hole.
- Wedge: Golf club that allows for the most loft. There are four types of wedges: pitching wedge, approach/gap wedge, sand wedge, and lob wedge.
- Wood: Golf club similar to a driver but with a smaller head and shaft.