| We have compiled a glossary of golfing terms and their definitions for your reference. Enter the term for which you would like a definition, or click a letter below to view the terms that begin with that letter. Click All to see the whole glossary. |
|
|
|
|
| Term |
Definition |
| Scorecard |
The scorecard tells you the length of each hole from each tee box as well as the "par" rating for the hole. Golfers keep track of their score on these cards. |
| Scramble |
To recover from trouble or a popular form of team play in which the team members pick the ball in the best position and everyone plays from that spot. |
| Setup |
The process of addressing the ball, so that the club and body are properly aimed and aligned. |
| Shaft |
The thing that connects the grip and the clubhead. Typically made of metal or graphite. |
| Shank |
When the ball is struck on the hosel of the club, usually sending it shooting off to the right. |
| Shape |
To curve a shot to fit the situation. The word is also used to describe the flight of the ball. (The usual shape of his shots was a fade.) |
| Short Game |
Those shots played on and around the green, including putting, chipping and pitching, and bunker shots. |
| Sky |
A high, short shot caused by the clubhead striking the underside of the ball. Also known as a "pop-up." |
| Slice |
A ball that curves from left to right to a greater degree than a fade. |
| Sole |
When referring to equipment, it is the bottom of a club. When referring to the swing, it is the point when the sole of the club touches the ground at address. |
| Square |
A term frequently used in golf. It can be used to describe a stance or to describe contact with the ball. It can also refer to the status of a match (they were all-square (tied) at the turn.) |
| Stance |
The position of the feet at address. |
| Stroke Play |
Also known as medal play, it is a form of competition based on the cumulative number of strokes taken, either over one round or several. |
| Swaying |
An exaggerated lateral movement of the body on either the backswing, forward swing, or both, which results in inconsistent shotmaking. |
| Sweet Spot |
The point on the clubface where, if it is struck with an object, the clubface will not torque or twist to either side. |
| Swing Plane |
An imaginary surface that describes the path and angle of the club during the swing. |
