Maryland Community Newspapers Online
Ace – a hole in one.
Birdie – when a player gets a score one shot under the par for the hole.
Bite – a slang expression used when players or fans want the ball to stop.
Bogey – when a player gets a score one shot over the par for the hole.
Duffer – a slang expression for someone who is not very good at golf.
Eagle – when a player gets a score two shots under the par for the hole.
Handicap – a number that signifies a non-professional player's ability. It is used so that non-professional golfers can play each other on an equitable basis.
Hazard – any bunker with sand or body of water. They are called "hazards" because they present obstacles for players.
The Lie – an expression that refers to the location of the ball. If a player has a "good lie" it means the ball is sitting in the fairway, or shorter grass. A "bad lie" would be if the ball is in the rough, or longer grass, and the player cannot see the ball well.
Mulligan – a slang expression for when a player takes a "do over" on a shot and the shot does not count against the player's score. Not used by professional players and not truly considered a part of golf.
Source: Maryland State Golf Association