Golf Dictionary From A to Z

B is for the back nine, or holes 10 through 18. Originally, golf courses only had nine holes, which were played consecutively and then in reverse (or backwards) to make 18 holes.

R is for release, or the point in a golfer's downswing where his wrists unlock. Later is better.

I is for iron, which consists of clubs numbered 1 through 9, depending on the loft of the solid metal head. Many golfers find that, by buying used golf clubs, they can afford to own a complete set of irons.

U is for unplayable, as when the ball lands by a tree or in a hazard. A one-stroke penalty is assessed, and the player gets to drop the ball nearby.

P is for putter, one of the most important golf clubs in any player's bag.

C is for golf clubs, which consist of drivers, woods, irons, wedges, and putters. Those with a low handicap often buy high-end or custom-made golf clubs, while those with a high handicap often find great deals on pre-owned golf clubs.

N is for new golf shoes, which are a necessity every few years. They're available in a variety of brands, like Callaway, Nike, Adidas, Oakley, and Ecco.

M is for mulligan, a do-over that is a godsend for the duffer.

Golf Dictionary From A to Z

G is for the gorgeous putting green, where holes are invariably won or lost.

L is for links, a term used for golf courses near the ocean (like Pebble Beach and Spyglass). L is also for lie, or where the ball is positioned on the ground. Lies can be good (like the fairway or green) or bad (like in the rough or in a bunker).

H is for the coveted and rare hole in one, but also for the all too familiar and dreaded hook shot, which curves to the left.

Z is for zinger, where the ball sails high through the air for a great distance.

Q is for quite a round, which is what every player desires.

S is for sand wedge, a critical golf club for getting out of a bunker.

V is for victory, as when a golfer wins a round.

K is for knock down, or a shot that doesn't fly very high in the air.

W is for Tiger Woods, who has seen more than a few victories.

F is for "Fore!" When you hear it, be sure to duck or cover your head. F is also for flop shot, which is taken when the ball needs to fly high and land on the green, and for fat shot, when the club digs into the ground and slows down the ball. Flop shots are good, while fat shots are not.

E is for eagle, or two strokes under par.

T is for tap in, when the ball is a breath's distance from the hole and just needs a little nudge to drop in.

J is for juice, which you obviously have if you're hitting clean.

A is for golf apparel, which can make you look great on the course. A is also for golf accessories, such as gloves, and an albatross, which is the coveted three under par.

D is for divot, that hunk of grass that flies in the air when a wedge is used. D is also for a double eagle, also known as an albatross.

Y is for yips, which some golfers experience as twitching during putting.