Bowling Slang Explained

Bowling is not just a game; it’s a culture rich with its own language. Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or a newbie just learning the ropes, knowing the lingo can make the game more fun and engaging. From the casual player to the competitive pro, understanding bowling slang is essential. In this article, we’ll dive into 10 popular bowling terms, focusing on those used to describe consecutive strikes. Get ready to level up your bowling vocabulary!

1. Turkey

One of the most well-known terms in bowling, a “Turkey” refers to three consecutive strikes in a single game. This term dates back to the late 1800s when bowling was often played at Thanksgiving events. Hitting three strikes in a row was a rare achievement, and winners were often awarded a turkey!

2. Hambone

The term “Hambone” is used when a bowler scores four consecutive strikes. While not as widely recognized as “Turkey,” the term gained popularity thanks to Rob Stone, a PBA (Professional Bowlers Association) announcer, who started using it during broadcasts. The whimsical term reflects the excitement of stringing together a series of strikes.

3. Five Bagger

Continuing the streak, a “Five Bagger” occurs when a player bowls five strikes in a row. The term “bagger” is often used in bowling to denote consecutive strikes, with the number preceding it indicating how many strikes have been achieved.

4. Six Pack

A “Six Pack” is a slang term for six strikes in a row. Much like buying a six-pack of your favorite beverage, this term emphasizes the satisfaction and achievement of hitting six consecutive strikes.

5. Front Seven

When a bowler achieves seven consecutive strikes at the start of a game, it is known as a “Front Seven.” This term highlights the impressive opening streak and sets the stage for a potential perfect game.

6. Perfect Game

A “Perfect Game” is the ultimate goal in bowling, achieved by rolling 12 consecutive strikes, resulting in a score of 300. This term is the pinnacle of bowling achievement and is celebrated by bowlers worldwide.

7. Greek Church

Moving away from strikes, the term “Greek Church” refers to a challenging split left after the first roll in a frame. This split typically includes five pins, with three on one side and two on the other, resembling the steeples of a Greek Orthodox church.

8. Brooklyn Strike

A “Brooklyn Strike” is when the ball hits the opposite side of the head pin from where it was intended, yet still results in a strike. For right-handed bowlers, this means the ball hits the left side of the head pin, and vice versa for left-handed bowlers. It’s a fortunate strike that often sparks lively debates among players.

9. Clean Game

A “Clean Game” is when a bowler completes a game without any open frames. This means the bowler either strikes or spares in every frame, resulting in a consistent and solid performance.

10. Gutter Ball

A “Gutter Ball” is when the ball rolls off the lane into the gutter before hitting any pins. While not the desired outcome, gutter balls are a part of the learning process and can happen to even the best players from time to time.

Conclusion

Understanding bowling slang not only enhances your knowledge of the game but also enriches your experience on the lanes. Whether you’re aiming for a Turkey or working to avoid a Gutter Ball, these terms help capture the essence and excitement of bowling. Next time you’re at the alley, impress your friends with your newfound vocabulary and appreciation for the nuances of this beloved sport. Happy bowling!