Lexicon of the Links

In golf, if you can't talk the talk you probably can't walk the walk. Getting the jargon right is proof that you do, indeed, live a golfing life. The game's language, though, is always evolving. For example, the phrase Never up, never in is out, while the term chalupa (a green hit in regulation) is in. Here's an updated, 2004 golf glossary.

Ambulance: Beverage cart. Usage: "This six-pack is dead, Moe. Call an ambulance for the back nine."

Bay of Pigs: Augusta National Golf Club.

Ben Affleck: A guy at the club who looks like a player, dresses like a player and talks like a player, but can't play a lick.

Beta-blocker: Double Johnnie Walker Black on the rocks.

Blowfish: A golfer who chokes or bears a striking resemblance to Mrs. Doubtfire.

Butter knife: Three-iron.

Candy: Money. Formerly: Jing.

Carl: Course superintendent. Usage: "Who's the Carl at this place? If the greens get any slower, I'm switching to a four-iron."

Checkered flag: To pick up when you're out of a hole. Usage: "I'm lying 7, Ed. Gimme the checkered flag."