The golf term “birdie” — meaning one stroke under par on a hole — actually comes from early American slang.
Origin Story
In the early 1900s, the word “bird” was popular slang for something excellent or impressive, much like saying “cool” or “awesome” today.
According to golf lore, the term was first coined in Atlantic City, New Jersey, at the Atlantic City Country Club:
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During a round, golfer Ab Smith hit a great approach shot and called it “a bird of a shot.”
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After sinking the putt for one under par, the group agreed to call such a score a “birdie.”
Why It Stuck
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The term caught on quickly in American golf circles and spread internationally.
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It fit naturally with golf’s tendency to name scoring achievements with vivid, memorable words.
Other “Bird” Terms Followed
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Eagle: Two under par (a bigger, rarer bird)
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Albatross (or Double Eagle): Three under par — extremely rare
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Condor: Four under par — virtually mythical in real play
Conclusion:
The word “birdie” might seem like technical golf jargon today, but it started as a casual compliment during a friendly round — and it became a lasting part of golf history.