Ace
A stroke played straight from the tee into the hole. Also known as a hole-in-one.
Golf Glossary
Golf from A to Z
The key terms of the game, explained in a compact form. From address to two-putt, based on the content of the book Golftourismus.
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A
Additional strokes
Extra strokes in certain situations, e.g. through penalty strokes, local rules or disciplinary measures.
Addressing the ball
The process of getting into the striking position. It includes setting up to the ball and grounding the clubhead behind it.
Aeration
A maintenance measure in which small holes are punched into the turf to reduce compaction and encourage root growth.
Aeration
Aerating the soil; encourages root growth and reduces compaction.
Aeration
Aerating the soil; encourages root growth, reduces compaction.
Aerator
A device for aerating the turf by punching small holes (e.g. the hollow-tine method).
AIG Women's Open
Formerly: Women's British Open
Aim (target line)
The alignment of the body and club towards the target. Deviations in aim can significantly affect the direction of the shot.
Air shot
A swing in which the ball is not struck. It counts as a regular stroke if an intent to hit the ball was clearly recognisable.
Albatross
A score of three strokes under par on a hole. Example: two strokes on a par 5.
Alignment ruler
A training aid for aligning putts. Banned in competition; allowed only for practice or under supervision.
All square
Term for a tied position in match play.
ANA Inspiration / Chevron Championship
A spring tournament, traditionally with a jump into the water after winning
Annual handicap (Jahresvorgabe)
A handicap-based value that serves as the basis for a golfer's playing handicap within a calendar year. Confirmed annually by the club or association.
Annual playing handicap
A handicap-based value that serves as the basis for a golfer's playing handicap within a calendar year. Confirmed annually by the club or association.
Apron (fringe)
The area directly in front of the green, cut slightly higher than the green itself. Allows chipping or even putting with limited roll quality.
Arnies
Colloquial term for a betting game format among recreational players. The rules vary regionally.
B
Backspin
Backward rotation of the ball after the strike. Heavy backspin can cause the ball to roll back after landing.
Bag
Carry bag for golf clubs and accessories. It is either carried, pulled, or transported on a trolley or cart.
Ball collision (Karambolage)
Two balls meeting on the green or during play. In certain situations this can lead to penalty strokes, depending on the rules context.
Ball contact
The moment the clubhead strikes the ball. The quality of contact influences direction, distance and spin.
Ball dispenser
A machine on the driving range that dispenses practice balls.
Ball identification
Marking a ball, e.g. with initials or dots, to avoid mix-ups. Every player is obliged to identify their ball clearly.
Ball marker
Small flat object, usually metal or plastic, used to mark the position of the ball on the green.
Ball marker
A small flat object to mark the ball's position when putting.
Ball marker
A flat chip or coin to mark the ball on the green.
Ball net / basket
A carrying device for range balls on the practice area.
Ball pouch
A small separate pouch or inner compartment in the bag for storing several balls.
Ball retriever
A telescopic pole with a scoop head to recover balls from water hazards.
Ball washer
A fixed or mobile device for cleaning dirty golf balls on the course.
Belt with marker clip
A solid belt with an integrated ball marker, often magnetic.
Best ball
A team format in which the best individual score per hole is counted.
Birdie
A score of one stroke under par on a hole. Example: two strokes on a par 3.
BMW International Open
A PGA tournament in Germany, usually in Munich
Body tension
Tension in the body before the swing, especially in the upper body and arms. Serves swing control and stability.
Bogey
A score of one stroke over par on a hole. Example: four strokes on a par 3.
Booking a tee time
Entering a tee time in the booking system. Required on many courses to avoid congestion and waiting times.
Bounce
The angle on the clubhead (especially on a wedge) that affects how it digs into ground or sand.
Break
The sideways slope of the green that affects the path of a putt. Players must account for the break when aiming.
Buffer zone
A tolerance range in the handicap system. Within this zone the handicap stays unchanged after a counting round.
Bunker
A hazard filled with sand. There are greenside bunkers (by the green) and fairway bunkers (along the way).
Bunker rake machine
A vehicle with a raking element for the even care of bunker surfaces.
C
Caddie
A person who accompanies a player during the round. The caddie carries the bag, hands over clubs, advises on strategy and watches ball positions.
Cap / visor
Headwear for protection from sun and glare.
Carry
The distance the ball travels through the air, from impact to its first landing. Important for club selection and risk planning.
Carry bag
A light golf bag with a shoulder strap for walking play.
Cart
Electric or petrol vehicle for transporting players and equipment around the course. Use is permitted or required on certain courses.
Cart (Kart)
A vehicle for transporting players and equipment on the course. Powered electrically or by combustion engine. Also called a golf cart.
Cart bag
A golf bag for use on a trolley or buggy, larger, with a stable base.
Cart-only rule
A requirement on certain courses or in certain weather to play only with a trolley or cart, e.g. to avoid back strain.
CBA / PCC
A day-dependent correction of the handicap (Course/Playing Conditions Calculation).
Challenge Tour / Korn Ferry Tour
The second tiers for up-and-coming talent and those moving up
Children's tee
A forward tee specifically for children. Adapts the course length to the shorter distances of junior play.
Chip
A short, low approach shot with little flight and plenty of roll. Usually played near the green to bring the ball to the flag in a controlled way.
Cliff
A steep terrain feature on or beside the course. It can act as a hazard or as a visual deterrent. One of the natural features of a course.
Club
The implement used to strike the ball. Also used colloquially for a golf club as an organisation or facility.
Club brush
A combination brush with nylon and metal bristles for cleaning faces and grooves.
Club championships
Held annually at almost every golf club. Split by age group
Club extension / shortening
A pipe extension or shortening to adjust shaft length individually.
Club marker
Adhesive film or a paint pen for individually marking clubs.
Club towel / microfibre cloth
For cleaning clubs during the round, usually attached to the bag.
Clubface
The hitting surface of the clubhead. Its angle determines the ball's launch direction and spin.
Clubhouse
Building on the course with changing rooms, dining, pro shop and administration. A central meeting point for members and guests.
Collar
The transition area between fairway and green. Usually cut to a medium height and can affect the roll of the ball.
Competition (amateur)
The official term for a tournament in the amateur game. Subject to the rules of the association or club and certain regulations.
Corridor
An imaginary playing area between hazards or trees through which the ball should ideally fly. Important for course management and risk assessment.
Course
The golf course itself. A full course usually consists of 9 or 18 holes.
Cut
A tournament term. After a set number of rounds the field is reduced based on scores. Anyone who misses the cut is eliminated.
Cut
The qualifying limit. Only players below the cut may play on.
D
Dead-straight putt (Drahtseilputt)
Colloquial German term for a putt rolled exactly straight, staying on line as if guided along a wire.
Deutsche Golf Liga (DGL) finals
A team format with a promotion and relegation system
DGV
Abbreviation for the German Golf Association (Deutscher Golf Verband). The governing body of organised golf in Germany, responsible for rules, the handicap system and competition play.
Directional control
The ability to play the ball on the desired line. Decisive for drives, approaches and putts.
Discarded score
A hole with no score, e.g. in Stableford (no point) or with the disqualification of individual holes.
Disqualification (DQ)
Exclusion for a serious rules breach or a faulty scorecard.
Distance
A measure of the length of a shot. Measured in metres or yards. Depends on club choice, swing speed and ball contact.
Divot
A piece of turf torn out of the ground by the club during a stroke. It is replaced afterwards or repaired by greenkeeping.
Dogleg
A hole that bends sharply in one direction, usually roughly at a right angle to the left or right. Requires precise shots and strategic placement.
Double bogey
Two strokes over par on a hole. Example: five strokes on a par 3.
DP World Tour (formerly European Tour)
The main men's tour in Europe, e.g. the BMW PGA Championship, Dubai Desert Classic
Draw
An intended ball flight with a slight right-to-left curve (for right-handers). Produced by a specific technique and used strategically.
Drive
The first stroke on a hole, usually from the tee with the driver. The aim is maximum distance with controlled direction.
Driver
The club with the largest head and the lowest loft (usually 9 to 13 degrees). Used almost exclusively off the tee for long shots.
Driver
The longest club, with the lowest loft. For tee shots with maximum distance.
Driving range
A practice area on the course for working on long shots. Usually equipped with mats, target markers and ball dispensers.
Drop
The rules-compliant process of bringing the ball back into play, e.g. after a ball in a water hazard or out of bounds. The ball is dropped from knee height.
Dropping
The process of returning the ball to play after certain rules situations. The ball must fall vertically from knee height.
E
E-trolley
An electrically powered trolley with motor assistance.
Eagle
Two strokes under par on a hole. Example: three strokes on a par 5. Rarer than a birdie.
Early stoppage
Ending a round before the final hole, e.g. due to weather, injury or a tournament decision. Leads to special scoring or annulment.
Electric trolley (Zugmaschine)
Colloquial German term for electrically powered trolleys or carts that carry the bag. Used on long rounds or with health limitations.
Entry fee
The participation fee for the tournament.
Errant shot
A ball that strays sharply from the target line. Caused by mishits, e.g. a faulty swing path or open face.
Etiquette
The set of behavioural rules in golf. It covers consideration for others, safety, brisk play and care of the course.
Executive course
A short course, usually with only par-3 and par-4 holes. Often used for beginners, taster sessions or quicker play.
Explosion shot
A sand shot from the bunker in which the ball is carried out of the hazard by the sand displaced beneath it.
F
Fade
An intended ball flight with a slight left-to-right curve (for right-handers). Considered more controllable than a slice and often used tactically.
Fairway
The closely mown area between tee and green. The fairway provides the ideal surface for the second and third shots.
Fairway mower
A wide-track mower for the fairway with several reels or rollers.
Fairway wood (3, 5, 7 wood)
For long shots off the ground or a tee. A little shorter than the driver, with higher loft.
Fat shot
A stroke in which the club hits the ground before the ball. This reduces distance and can make the flight uncontrollable.
Fertilisation
The supply of nutrients, matched to season, soil analysis and grass type.
Fertilisation
The supply of nutrients, matched to season, soil analysis and grass type.
Fertiliser spreader
Distributes granular fertiliser or lime on the playing surfaces.
Flag
The marker in the hole on the green. It makes the hole location visible and can be used for orientation when putting.
Flight
A group of two to four players who play a round together. Flights are used to organise tournaments and tee times.
Flight
A group of two to four players who start together.
Follow-through
The part of the swing after impact. The follow-through influences direction, tempo and balance of the whole swing.
Fore
A safety shout on the course when a ball flies towards other people. Every player is obliged to call "Fore!" loudly.
Forward press
A body position at setup where the weight rests slightly on the front leg. Affects the direction of the shot and the contact point.
Free drop
The ball may be brought back into play without penalty at another spot. Occurs, for example, with immovable obstructions or ground under repair.
G
Gap wedge
The gap-filler between pitching and sand wedge. Loft around 50 to 54°.
German Challenge
Part of the Challenge Tour (men, second tier)
German championships
Individual and team formats for amateurs of all age groups
Gimme
A putt so close to the hole that it is conceded. Usually granted in private rounds or in match play by agreement.
Golf buggy (cart)
An electric vehicle for transporting players and equipment around the course.
Golf glove
Usually leather or synthetic, worn on the lead hand for better grip.
Golf shoes
With soft spikes or a stud profile for a stable stance. Waterproof or breathable depending on the season.
GPS device / rangefinder
An electronic aid for measuring distances on the course.
Grain
The direction in which the grass grows on the green. It influences the speed and direction of putts. Visible in the sheen and shade of the surface.
Green
The closely mown surface around the hole. The green is the most delicate playing surface and must be entered with the utmost care.
Green fee
The playing fee for guests at a golf course. Varies by weekday, time of day and course quality.
Green mower
A precision mower for the putting green with a very low cutting height (around 3 to 5 mm).
Greenkeeper
The specialist staff responsible for the care, upkeep and playability of the course. In charge of mowing, bunker care, irrigation and aeration measures.
Grip
The top part of the club held in the hands. Also the term for the hand hold. Variants include the Vardon, baseball and interlocking grip.
Grip tape / replacement grip
An exchangeable grip for better hold and feel.
Groove
A channel on the clubface. It creates friction and influences spin and control of the ball.
Groove cleaning pen
A fine tool for cleaning the grooves in the face.
Gross
A player's score without handicap deduction. The opposite of net.
Gross
The raw score; the actual number of strokes without handicap deduction.
Grounding the club
Resting the club on the ground behind the ball before the stroke. Prohibited in certain zones, e.g. in a bunker.
H
Handicap
A number indicating a golfer's playing ability. A lower handicap means a higher standard of play. It is used to determine strokes received and to assess results.
Handicap (Vorgabe)
A number reflecting a player's individual handicap. Used to enable fair comparisons between players of different ability.
Handicap-relevant
A term for tournaments or rounds whose results feed into the handicap calculation.
Handicap-relevant
The result feeds into the official handicap calculation.
Handicap-relevant round
A term for rounds or tournaments whose results feed into the handicap calculation. Certain formal criteria must be met (e.g. course length, format, number of fellow players).
Hazard
A general term for an obstacle. Refers to water hazards, bunkers or other terrain that makes play more difficult.
Headcover
A protective cover for clubheads, especially on woods and the putter. Protects against damage in the bag.
Headcover
Protection for driver, fairway woods and putter.
Headcover
A protective cover for driver, woods, hybrids and putter.
Heel
The part of the clubhead near the shaft. A ball struck on the heel often leads to uncontrolled shots.
Hole
The target of each individual segment of play. Consists of flag, hole opening and green. A course typically has 9 or 18 holes.
Hole (corridor)
Term for the entire playing area between tee and green on a hole. A round consists of several such holes.
Hole-in-one
A stroke from the tee straight into the hole. Also called an ace and considered a rare highlight of a round.
Honour
The right to play first off the tee on a hole. It goes to the player with the best score on the previous hole.
Hook
An unwanted strong right-to-left curve (for right-handers), caused by faulty technique or grip.
Hybrid
A club that combines the properties of an iron and a wood. Often used as a replacement for long irons because it is easier to play.
Hybrid (rescue)
A cross between wood and iron. Easier to play than long irons.
I
Immovable obstruction
A fixed object on the course that may not be removed (e.g. a path, bench, fixed marker). The player receives a free drop without penalty.
Impact
The moment of contact between clubhead and ball. Impact decides direction, distance and spin.
Inside path
An imaginary line between the body and the ball at address. Shots delivered from the inside are considered efficient and controlled.
Iron
A golf club with a flat, usually metal head. Irons are used for medium to short distances. Numbering typically runs from 3 to 9.
Iron
A club with a flat head, used for medium and short distances.
Iron Byron
Iron Byron is a mechanical golf-swing simulator originally developed by the United States Golf Association (USGA). It is used to test golf balls and clubs under precisely reproducible conditions. The device is named after the legendary US golfer Byron Nelson, whose swing was regarded as exceptionally smooth and repeatable. Iron Byron consists of a motor-driven swing arm that technically imitates the movement of a human golf swing. The setup allows constant speed, club path and contact point. This makes it possible to measure the effects of ball models, clubhead designs or loft angles exactly and comparably. The system is still used in the golf industry today, especially in developing and certifying equipment. It does not replace biomechanical analysis of players but serves neutral material testing.
Irons (3 to 9)
For medium to short distances. The higher the number, the shorter the club and the higher the loft.
Irrigation
Automated or manual via the sprinkler system. Important for even growth.
Irrigation
Automated or manual via the sprinkler system. Important for even growth.
Isolated stroke
A single stroke outside regular play, for example when practising or as a penalty stroke after a rules breach. The stroke is not counted in match play.
J
Jetlag error
Colloquial term for coordination problems caused by time-zone changes at international tournaments. Not an official term.
Jungle
Colloquial term for very densely overgrown, barely playable areas at the edge of the course, usually off the fairway. The ball often ends up lost or unplayable there.
Junior golf
An organised area within clubs or associations to develop young players. Covers training, competition and special course-permission programmes.
Junior Ryder Cup / Junior Solheim Cup
The junior versions of the major team competitions
K
Kick point
Technical term for the point on a shaft where it bends most during the swing. Influences trajectory and ball height.
L
Ladies European Tour (LET)
The women's tour in Europe
Lake ball
A used golf ball recovered from water hazards and resold. Often cheaper, but possibly impaired in flight or surface properties.
Launch angle
The starting angle of the ball after impact, measured in degrees relative to the ground. Influenced by club choice, swing path and contact point.
Leader
The player with the best running score in a tournament or match. The leader usually also has the honour on the next tee.
Leaf blower / vacuum
For removing leaves, clippings and loose sand from greens and paths.
Leaving the ball
Failing to mark or lift a ball. In match play the opponent can gain an advantage from this; in stroke play it depends on the rules.
Lie
The exact position in which the ball rests. It can affect playability, for example on slopes or in the rough.
Lightning rule
When there is a risk of lightning, play must be suspended. Players may protect themselves at their own discretion without penalty. The round resumes after the suspension.
LIV Golf
A new international tour with an invitational system and team format, funded by Saudi Arabia
Lob wedge
For very high, short shots. Loft up to 64°.
Local rule
An additional, locally valid rule that accounts for particular features of the course. Announced before the round and relevant in competition.
Loft
The angle of the clubface relative to vertical. Determines the trajectory and height of the ball. More loft means higher flight and shorter distance.
Loft vs. lie
Loft is the angle of the face; lie is the angle between shaft and ground. Both affect the trajectory but are clearly distinct.
Long hitter
A player with particularly high distance, especially off the tee with the driver. Often crowned in long-drive competitions.
Long irons
Irons with a low loft, typically the 2 to 4 irons. Used for long approach shots but considered harder to control.
Lost ball
If a ball is not found within the allotted search time, it is deemed lost. Play must continue with a penalty stroke.
LPGA Tour
The main women's tour worldwide, e.g. the CME Group Tour Championship
M
Marker (scorer)
The person who records a fellow player's strokes at a tournament. In the amateur game usually a fellow player. The marker must sign at the end of the round.
Marker (scorer)
The person responsible for the correct recording of a fellow player's strokes.
Marking control
Checking and renewing course markings (stakes, lines, distance markers).
Marking control
Checking and renewing course markings (stakes, lines, distance markers).
Marshal
Course supervisor ensuring orderly play. Marshals watch over pace, etiquette and safety, but do not interfere with play.
Marshal
A supervisor controlling pace of play and conduct on the course.
Match play
A format in which each player or team tries to win more individual holes than the opponent. The total number of strokes is secondary.
Match play
A format in which it is not the total number of strokes that counts, but who plays each hole better. The winner is whoever wins more holes than the opponent.
Medal play
A format in which the total number of strokes over a round decides. In the amateur game usually referred to as stroke play.
Membership
Official status in a golf club or association. A requirement for many tournaments, handicap maintenance and use of the course.
Midsize grip
A grip diameter between standard and jumbo. Often used by players with larger hands or for control-oriented swings.
Mirco
Author of the book "Golftourismus - Dein Guide für Golfreisen".
Mowers (fairway / green mower)
Special greenkeeping vehicles for maintaining the playing surfaces.
Mowing
The regular cutting of green, fairway, rough, tee and apron, depending on how heavily each is used.
Mowing
Regular cutting of green, fairway, rough, tee and apron, depending on how often each is used.
Mulligan
An unofficial second attempt after a poor tee shot. Tolerated only in private and recreational play, not allowed in competition.
Muscleback
A type of iron with a continuous, solid back. Usually used by professionals or very good players, as it is less forgiving.
N
Nearest to the pin
A special prize at tournaments, measuring the ball that finishes closest to the hole off the tee on a par 3.
Net
A player's score taking the handicap into account. Unlike the gross score, it allows a fair comparison of different playing standards.
Net
The result taking the handicap into account.
No return
A tournament result where no complete scorecard was handed in. Counted as a non-result and can lead to disqualification.
No return (NR)
An incomplete or unsubmitted scorecard. No result.
O
OB (out of bounds)
Abbreviation for "out of bounds". Refers to areas outside the course boundary, marked by white stakes. A ball out of bounds may not be played on.
Offset
A design feature on clubs where the face is set slightly back from the shaft. Helps hit the ball straighter and reduces a tendency to slice.
On-course catering / halfway
Refreshment usually taken after nine holes.
Out of bounds
Area outside the official field of play, marked by white stakes. A ball out of bounds may not be played on and must be brought back into play with penalty strokes.
Overclubbing
Using too long a club for the chosen distance. Usually leads to a shot that flies past the target.
Overlapping grip
A grip technique in which the little finger of the right hand rests over the left index finger. Often used by players with large hands.
Overseeding
The targeted introduction of new grass seed to thicken or repair weakened areas.
Overseeding
The targeted introduction of new grass seed to thicken or repair weakened areas.
P
Pace of play
A measure of brisk play on the course. Includes brisk walking, preparing for the shot in good time, and short decision times.
Pace of play
The speed of play. Refers to brisk play, appropriate behaviour between shots and keeping to the time frame.
Par
The reference value for a hole, indicating how many strokes a good player needs on average. A typical par 4 means: tee shot, two approaches, one putt.
Patter
A common misspelling of "putter".
Penalty (Malus)
A disadvantage or penalty stroke, e.g. for rules breaches or special local rules. The opposite of a bonus.
Penalty area
A term in the current rules for hazard areas formerly called water hazard or lateral water hazard. Marked by red or yellow lines.
Pendulum stroke
The principle of the putting stroke, in which the club swings evenly from the shoulders back and forth, like a clock pendulum.
Pesticide treatment
The targeted use of fungicides, insecticides or herbicides in the event of infestation or disease pressure.
Pesticide treatment
The targeted use of fungicides, insecticides or herbicides in the event of infestation or disease pressure.
PGA Championship
Venue: various courses in the USA Special feature: run by the PGA of America, high prize money
PGA Tour
The main men's series in the USA, e.g. the Players Championship, Memorial Tournament
Pin
The flag in the hole. Also used as a target marker when playing into the green.
Pin position
The actual location of the flag on the green. It varies daily and influences tactics when playing the approach.
Pitch
A high, short approach shot with plenty of flight and little roll. Used to clear obstacles or to land the ball precisely on the green.
Pitch fork
A tool for repairing pitch marks on the green. Compulsory equipment for all players to protect the playing surface.
Pitch fork
A tool for repairing pitch marks on the green.
Pitch fork
A tool for repairing pitch marks left by landing balls on the green.
Pitch mark
The depression a landing ball leaves on the green. Must be repaired immediately so it does not affect the putting line.
Pitching wedge
For approach shots of medium height. Loft usually around 45 to 48°.
Platzreife (course permission)
Proof that a player has the rules knowledge, etiquette and playing ability required. A prerequisite for playing on most German courses.
Plugged ball
A ball that has embedded itself in the ground or sand on landing. The lie can make playing on difficult or impossible.
Polo shirt / performance shirt
The standard on most courses. Breathable and easy to move in.
Pre-shot routine
A recurring sequence of movements or thoughts before the stroke. Serves concentration and consistency.
Preferred lies
A rules option that allows the ball to be repositioned within a defined area. Often permitted in poor course conditions.
Presidents Cup
USA vs. an international selection (excluding Europe), also on a two-year cycle
Prize-giving
The formal close with the announcement of placings and the handover of prizes.
Pro
Short for "professional". Refers to players with professional status or licensed golf instructors.
Pro shop
A retail outlet on the course offering equipment, clothing, accessories and advice from the golf pro.
Provisional ball
A second ball played in case the first is possibly lost or out of bounds. Must be announced as "provisional" before the stroke.
Provisional ball (Notball)
A second ball played when it is unclear whether the original is lost or out of bounds. Must be announced as a provisional ball.
Public course
A golf facility where you can play without club membership. Usually accessible with a daily green fee.
Putter
A club with a flat face for play on the green. Used to roll the ball into the hole.
Putter
For the green only. Rolls the ball into the hole.
Putting green
A practice area for working on putts. Part of the standard equipment of every facility and usually usable independently of the course.
Q
Qualifying
A preliminary round or knockout to take part in a larger tournament. Often held as a separate event with limited places.
Quince wood
A historic material for clubheads. Barely used today, replaced in modern clubs by metal or composite materials.
R
R&A
Abbreviation for "The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews". Together with the USGA, responsible for setting and maintaining the rules of golf worldwide.
Rain hat / neck gaiter
Extra protection in severe weather.
Rain jacket / rain trousers
Light, water-repellent clothing for wet playing conditions.
Rake
A tool for levelling bunker traces after a shot. Every player is obliged to smooth the bunker after entering it.
Range
Short for driving range. A practice area for working on long shots. Part of almost every facility.
Range ball
A ball for the driving range, usually harder, less precise, marked "Range". Not approved for tournaments.
Range basket
A container of practice balls on the driving range. Available via token, chip card or subscription.
Range basket
A container for carrying practice balls on the driving range.
Ranger
A member of staff or appointed supervisor on the course. Responsible for pace of play, order and etiquette.
Recovery shot
A defensive shot to return to a playable position, usually from rough, woods or a bunker. Not an attempt to reach the green directly.
Reference point
A fixed point on the course, e.g. a tree, bunker or stake, used to align a shot.
Rental club set
A set of standard clubs for visiting players without their own equipment.
Rescue
A hybrid club with properties of wood and iron. Particularly suited to long shots from difficult lies.
Roller (green roller)
For compacting the surface; increases green speed and smoothness.
Rough
The area beside the fairway with longer grass. Makes shot control harder and brings a high risk of dispersion and lost balls.
Rough mower
A powerful mower for tall grass in the rough.
Rules breach
An action that violates the official rules of golf. Penalised with strokes, loss of hole or disqualification, depending on the situation and format.
Rules influence
Situations in which the rules determine how the game is played. For example when dropping, taking penalties or applying special local rules.
Rules understanding
The willingness or ability to apply and understand the rules. Especially important in competition and for self-policing.
Run
The distance the ball rolls after landing. Especially relevant for fairway shots, chips and low approaches.
Ryder Cup
Every two years: Europe vs. USA (men, no prize money, great honour)
S
Sand wedge
A club with high loft (around 54 to 58 degrees), developed especially for shots from bunkers or soft ground. Also suited to high approach shots.
Sand wedge
For bunkers and short, high shots. Loft around 54 to 58°.
Scarifier
Cuts vertical slits into the ground, removes thatch and improves water uptake.
Scarifying
Removes dead plant material and moss, improves water infiltration.
Scarifying
Removes dead plant material and moss, improves water infiltration.
Scorecard
The official document for recording the number of strokes per hole. In tournaments it must be kept fully and correctly and handed in signed.
Scorecard
The record of strokes per hole. Must be filled in correctly and signed.
Scorecard holder
A clip or folder for keeping the scorecard during the round.
Scratch golfer
A player with a handicap of 0. Considered the reference standard in the amateur game. The basis for calculating course rating and slope.
Setup
The preparatory position before the stroke: stance, ball position, grip and alignment. Influential on the swing and impact.
Shaft
The club shaft, the connection between grip and clubhead. Material, flex and length affect swing tempo and ball control.
Shape
The intended flight curve of the ball, e.g. draw or fade. Part of tactical course planning.
Short game
All shots within roughly 50 metres of the green: chips, pitches, bunker shots and putts. Considered a decisive part of the game for improving scores.
Short game
All shots within the scoring zone (around 50 metres of the green): pitch, chip, bunker shot and putt.
Slice
An unwanted ball flight with a strong left-to-right curve (for right-handers), usually caused by an open face or out-to-in swing.
Slope
A number rating the difficulty of a course for players with a handicap. A higher slope value means a harder course for average golfers.
Sloping lie
The ball's position on a sloped surface. A distinction is made between uphill, downhill, right-foot-low and left-foot-low lies. Each slope requires a technical adjustment in the swing.
Socket (shank)
A mishit in which the ball is struck with the hosel (club neck). Often leads to a sharp deviation to the right; also called a "shank".
Soft greens
Greens with high moisture or low compaction. Balls stop more quickly and pitches leave heavy pitch marks.
Soil sampler
A device for taking soil and root samples to analyse soil quality.
Solheim Cup
The women's version of the Ryder Cup: Europe vs. USA
Solid contact
Contact exactly in the centre of the face. Leads to optimal energy transfer, directional accuracy and distance.
Spin
The rotation of the ball about its own axis. Backspin creates lift and stopping power; sidespin causes the ball to curve.
Sprayer (self-propelled / trailer)
For applying liquid fertiliser, fungicides or herbicides.
Spraying it around (Würfeln)
Colloquial German term for uncontrolled play without a clear strategy. Common among beginners or on risky shots from difficult lies.
Stableford
A points system in which points are awarded depending on the number of strokes relative to par.
Standard rules situation
A standardised playing situation for which a defined rule applies. For example "ball out of bounds" or "immovable obstruction".
Start list
The order of players / flights. Published in advance.
Starter
The person at the first tee who organises play, checks tee times and explains rules.
Starter
The person who organises play at the tee.
Statistics
The recording of performance figures such as fairways hit, greens in regulation, putts per round. A basis for training planning and game analysis.
Stimpmeter
A device for measuring the speed of a green. The higher the value, the faster the green.
Stroke play
A format counted over all holes, decided by the total number of strokes. Unlike match play, every single result counts.
Stroke play (Zählspiel)
A format in which all strokes over a complete round are counted. The winner is the player with the lowest total. In English: stroke play.
Sweater / midlayer
For cool conditions. Usually with stretch material for the swing.
Sweet spot
The centre of the face, where energy transfer is optimal. A ball struck cleanly on the sweet spot flies furthest and straightest.
T
Tee
A small peg of wood, plastic or biodegradable material on which the ball is placed for the tee shot. Allowed only for the first stroke of a hole.
Tee box
The teeing area of a hole. Usually bounded by two markers, between which (and up to two club-lengths behind) play must begin.
Tee time
The start time of a round. On busy courses it is booked in advance, often to the exact minute.
Tempo
A player's swing speed and rhythm. An even tempo is decisive for control and consistency.
The Evian Championship
Venue: Évian-les-Bains (France)
The Masters
Venue: Augusta National (USA) Special feature: invitational tournament, green winner's jacket
The Open Championship
Venue: rotating links courses (Great Britain) Special feature: the oldest golf tournament in the world
Thermal underwear / base layer
For winter rounds. Warms without bulk.
Thin shot
A stroke in which the ball is struck too high on the face. Leads to a low trajectory, a lack of spin and often excessive distance.
Three-putt
Three putts on one green. Considered a source of error and best avoided, as it noticeably worsens the score.
Tiered green
A green with a strongly sloping surface, often from back to front. Makes putting harder and requires precise landing zones on the approach.
Tiger line
An aggressive line of play over hazards or through narrow gaps, with higher risk; named after Tiger Woods.
Timing
The coordination of the movements in the swing. Good timing leads to clean ball contact and a consistent trajectory.
Token (Jeton)
A small metal or plastic chip, usually coin-sized. Used to release ball baskets at dispensers on the driving range. Many facilities issue tokens at reception or in the pro shop. Some use chip cards or contactless payment instead.
Token (Jeton)
A chip or coin to activate the ball dispenser.
Token (Jeton)
A chip for the ball dispenser on the driving range.
Top dresser
A machine for spreading sand (top dressing) evenly on greens or tees.
Top dressing
Applying fine sand to improve smoothness and soil structure.
Top dressing
Applying fine sand to improve smoothness and soil structure.
Topping
A mishit in which the ball is struck with the bottom edge of the club or too high on the face. The ball skips low across the ground.
Total score
The result across all holes of a round or tournament. Usually shown as gross or net.
Touch
A feel for distance and weight, especially in putting and the short game. Developed through practice and playing experience.
Tour
An organisation of professional golf tournaments, e.g. the PGA Tour, European Tour, LPGA Tour. Also refers to the professional circuit itself.
Tournament
An organised competition with fixed rules, scoring and conditions. There are individual, team, net and gross formats.
Trolley
A cart for pulling or pushing golf equipment. Available as a hand trolley or an electrically powered model.
Trolley
A cart for pulling or pushing the bag.
Two-putt
A putt completed in two strokes from the green into the hole. Considered a solid result, especially on larger greens.
U
U.S. Open
Venue: various courses in the USA Special feature: a high level of difficulty, an open qualifying system
U.S. Women's Open
The highest prestige in women's golf, on difficult courses
Ultra-soft ball
A golf ball with a very soft core and low compression. Promotes control and feel in the short game, especially for players with lower swing speed.
Underclubbing
Using too short a club for the distance. Results in the ball failing to reach the target.
Unplayable
A lie the player declares unplayable. The player may take a penalty stroke and a drop option.
Unscored hole
A hole not counted in the result. Occurs, for example, with an early stoppage or disqualification.
W
Walker Cup
Amateur teams: USA vs. Great Britain & Ireland
Water hazard
The former term for areas of water, today called a "penalty area". Marked by red or yellow stakes or lines. Requires specific drop options.
Wedge
A short club with high loft. Used for the short game and bunker shots. Variants: pitching wedge, sand wedge, lob wedge, gap wedge.
Weight system
Insertable weights for fine-tuning the clubhead or putter.
Windbreaker / vest
Protects against wind and cool temperatures without restricting movement.
Winter green
A substitute surface for the regular green in the cold season. Usually noticeably smaller and more robust, with different putting behaviour.
Winter rule
An additional local rule in the cold season. Allows, for example, preferred lies on closely mown areas or extended drop zones.
Women's PGA Championship
The counterpart to the men's PGA Championship
Wood
A club with a large face and low loft, suited to long shots. Despite the name, modern woods are usually made of metal.
World Handicap System
The handicap system in force worldwide since 2020. Uses the best 8 of 20 rounds to calculate the handicap, replacing earlier national systems.
Y
Yards
A unit of length in the English-speaking world. One yard equals 0.9144 metres. On many international courses distances are given in yards.
Youngster
A term for young, up-and-coming golfers, especially in the junior bracket or the transition to professional status.