Discover the essential language and slang that makes tennis unique
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As with any sport, tennis makes use of specific terminology or vocabulary.
If you’re just getting into tennis, the terms on this page will help you become more fluent in the words that players use. From scoring and match play to the court and slang, we have you covered.
Here are the different types of tennis terms that we cover – click any of these links to jump straight to that section.
Scoring | Slang |
Matchplay | Court |
Shots | Tournament |
Technique | Equipment |
Why learn tennis terms?
There are a variety of reasons why it’s valuable to learn the terminology used in tennis. Here are a few of the top reasons:
You Play Tennis
If you play tennis, then it’s helpful to speak the language other players will use both in match play and off the court. The more familiar you are, the more comfortable you will be in conversation which will, in turn, make it easier to relate to your peers.
You’re Learning Tennis
When you’re learning tennis, your coach is going to use specific terms and phrases when they teach. The more familiar you are with the words they use, the easier it will be to absorb their instruction.
For example, if your coach tells you to stay out of no man’s land or asks you to hold a continental grip you’ll know what they mean if you’re familiar with the terms.
You Enjoy Watching Tennis
If you’re a fan of the sport and love to watch matches on TV or attend tournaments, then it’s incredibly helpful to learn tennis terms. Doing so will help you more easily follow along and in turn, increase your level of enjoyment.
What we cover for each term
For each term, we provide comprehensive details that will help you walk away with a clear understanding. Here’s what you can expect when you click to learn more about each term.
For each term, we provide comprehensive details that will help you walk away with a clear understanding. Here’s what you can expect when you click to learn more about each term.
- A definition
- Examples of the term in a sentence
- Context for its use
- Common questions and answers about the term
Ready to get started? Keep scrolling to review each section, and its related terms.
Terminology
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Terminology
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Terminology
In tennis, there are a variety of nuanced rules that may not be overly apparent when you’re first learning…
Terminology
A foot fault occurs when a server’s foot touches any part of the baseline, or the imaginary extension of…
Terminology
Typically, a player will hit an ace on their first serve where the speed of the ball tends to be greater…
Terminology
An offensive shot that allows a tennis player to transition from the baseline to the net hitting either…
Terminology
The backward motion of a swing that moves the tennis racquet into position in preparation to swing…
Terminology
The term bagel in tennis is slang that refers to the score of 6-0. The word bagel is used to represent…
Terminology
The ad court is the left side of the tennis court as divided by the center service line and center mark…
Terminology
The automatic advancement of a seeded singles player or doubles team from one round to the next…
Terminology
A small hollow object made of rubber, covered in fluorescent yellow felt and pressurized so that it bounces…
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terms or post any questions you have.
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