If you're new to playing golf, you've likely started to pick up some of the terminology commonly heard on the course. Among these expressions is the word "birdie." Knowing what it means is essential for keeping accurate scores. Consult the guide below if you wish to learn more about the term to enhance your golfing skills.

What a Birdie Means

This term is a scoring reference that indicates one stroke less than the given par on any hole. While a birdie is attainable, it can be difficult to achieve if the golf course has a challenging configuration. The technique requires excellent putting and marksmanship skills.

History of the Birdie

The origin of the term "birdie" is traced back to 1899. Two brothers, Ab and William P. Smith, and a friend, George Crump, were engaged in a round of golf at a course in Atlantic City. Ab supposedly hit a second shot within six inches of the hole on a par 4, reportedly responding to it with, "That was a bird of a shot." 

Ab suggested "double compensation" if either of the players hit a hole under par to make the game more competitive. He described the shot as a bird because it was a popular slang term in the early 19th century that meant "cool." The word morphed into "birdie" and has been used by golfers since then. 

How to Score a Birdie

The first step to achieving this feat is finding out what par is needed for the golf course, which is usually four. The player will keep track of the number of strokes to get to the designated number and divide it by four. This figure is the birdie, which is how many shots over par it would be if all players shot their best on each hole. When scoring a birdie, the player will typically circle it on the scorecard based on the number of shots taken during a particular round. 

A birdie is a goal both new and long-term golfers hope to achieve. The Village Course at Waikoloa on Hawaii's Big Island welcomes players of all levels to strive for bragging rights on reaching this sport's milestone. This premier golf course is near the beautiful Kohala Coast and neighboring iconic volcanoes and was designed by world-renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. to capture the area's stunning landscape. From affordable rates to on-site supply rentals, they offer various amenities to make your days on the course fun and positively memorable. Reserve your tee time online, and call (808) 883-9621 to speak to a friendly staff member.