June 6, 2022

Just what is a birdie in Golf? Well, chances are, you heard it while watching a game unfold or overheard other people shout it joyously on the golf course. A birdie is, as might be obvious, a very good thing in golf. In fact, many players characterize how good they are by their ability to frequently get a birdie.

One of the most common terms used in the golf lexicon, exactly what does a birdie mean? Well, think no more because, in this article, we’ll explain the meaning and origin of the word birdie and how you can score it as a golfer.

What is a Birdie in Golf?

Usually, scoring a birdie means that you’ve scored one stroke less than the declared par of any given hole. In a game where you try to get the ball in the hole in as few strokes as possible, you can see why this is such a good thing.

So, for example, if you are dealing with a par-3 hole. You score a birdie by completing the whole with only 2 strokes instead of the standard 3 strokes. For a par-4 hole, you would need 3 strokes for a birdie.

Though not exactly easy to pull off it’s definitely not as hard to get as an eagle, double-eagle, or condor. Whereas the other types of scoring terms require an excessive amount of luck, any player can score a birdie with the right skills.

Where did the word come from?

It was during the 1910s that the term “birdie” became used widely. In those days, a “birdie” was a slang form of the word “bird” and commonly used to denote something great or amazing (such as scoring 1 stroke below par).

There are many different accounts as to where it started to be used in golf but many believe it to come from the Atlantic City Country Club in New Jersey back in 1903.

From then on, other exceptional plays under par would take on the name of a specific bird i.e. eagles for 2 strokes below par, albatross (double eagle) for 3 strokes below par, or condors for 4 strokes below par.

How to score it?

How to Score A Birdie

Unlike the others, getting a birdie arises from skill more than anything else. Your shots need to be as precise as possible with just enough amount of force with your swings. 

Make it a habit to set yourself up favorably by hitting long, straight, and on-target shots. Only use golf clubs that help bring out your striking power while keeping you in control. For this, it might help to have some clubs, if not all, specially fitted for you. Another trick golfers do is use putters that help you maneuver the green with utmost precision.

Other than that, the only sure way to score birdies is through practice.

Bottom Line…

And that was our article answering the question: what is a birdie in golf? Easier explained than done but, again, anyone can do it with the right skill and mindset. If you keep at it, practice, and play the game the right way, then we have no doubt you’d be scoring birdies left and right!

About the author 

Linda Parker

My name is Linda Parker, I’ve been around golf since I was born, and I’ve been golfing since I was four years old!

I’m here to share my love of the game with you, so please do let me know if you have any questions!

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