In the game of golf, scoring is often centered around a term called “par,” which refers to the expected number of strokes a skilled golfer should need to complete a hole. When a golfer completes a hole in fewer strokes than par, it’s called an under-par score — and one of the most common under-par scores is a birdie.
A birdie occurs when a player finishes a hole one stroke under par. For example:
- On a par 3 hole, a score of 2 is a birdie.
- On a par 4 hole, a score of 3 is a birdie.
- On a par 5 hole, a score of 4 is a birdie.
Achieving a birdie is seen as an excellent accomplishment on any hole and reflects strong skill, precision, and sometimes a bit of luck. Birdies are highly sought after by both amateur and professional golfers, as they help lower a player’s total score and can be crucial in competitive play.
The term “birdie” originated in the United States in the early 20th century, reportedly coming from the slang word “bird,” which at the time meant something excellent or outstanding.
Understanding terms like birdie is essential for anyone learning golf, as they form the foundation of golf scoring. Other related terms include:
- Par: The standard number of strokes for a hole.
- Eagle: Two strokes under par.
- Bogey: One stroke over par.
Whether you’re playing for fun or competition, birdies are always a highlight on the course.
