The Ultimate Guide to Disc Golf Lingo

Disc golf has exploded in popularity over the past decade, bringing in waves of new players, new courses, and a whole new generation of fans. But along with the sport’s growth comes something every newcomer eventually discovers: disc golfers have their own language.

If you’ve ever stood on a tee pad listening to players say things like “I parked it,” “That was a nasty tree-kick,” or “I just need a reliable flippy mid,” you might have wondered: What are they even talking about?

This guide breaks down the most common (and most entertaining) disc golf lingo so you can sound like a seasoned player on your next round.

Core Disc Golf Vocabulary

1. Hyzer

A throw where the disc is angled downward away from the body (left edge down for right-hand backhand). Produces a strong, curved fade.

2. Anhyzer (Anny)

Opposite of hyzer — disc angled upward away from the thrower. Produces a curve in the “turn” direction.

3. Fade

The natural finish of most discs at the end of the flight, usually moving left for a RHBH throw.

4. Turn

Early-flight movement of a disc to the right (RHBH). Flippier discs have more turn.

5. Stable / Overstable / Understable

• Overstable: fights the wind, finishes left hard

• Stable: neutral, straight flying

• Understable (Flippy): turns easily, great for beginners or hyzer-flip shots

In-The-Bag Terms

6. Putter

Slow, straight discs used for putting and short approaches.

7. Midrange

Versatile discs ideal for controlled throws, finesse lines, and shorter fairways.

8. Fairway Driver

For placement shots and tight lines. More control than a distance driver.

9. Bomber / Distance Driver

Fast disc meant for max power and long shots — “bombing it.”

Shot Descriptions

10. Hyzer Flip

Throwing an understable disc on hyzer that flips up to flat and glides. Beautiful when done right.

11. Flex Shot

An overstable disc thrown on an anhyzer angle so it turns, then fades back. “S-curve.”

12. Forehand (Flick / Sidearm)

Throw using a sidearm motion.

13. Backhand

Traditional throw, power coming from rotation of shoulders/hips.

14. Roller

Throwing the disc so it lands on its edge and rolls.

15. Scramble

Trying to save par from the trees, bushes, or a horrible lie.

On-Course Expressions

16. “Parked It”

A drive that lands right next to the basket. Tap-in birdie.

17. “Tree-Love”

When your disc hits a tree and bounces in a good direction.

18. “Tree-Kick” (the opposite)

When you hit a tree and your disc rockets into the worst possible place.

19. “Nailed the Gap”

You threw cleanly through a narrow fairway opening.

20. “Shanked It”

Wildly inaccurate throw — usually followed by an apology.

21. “Lay Up”

Choosing a safe, controlled shot instead of running the basket.

22. “Running It”

Aggressively going for the chains, even if danger lurks behind.

Scoring & Rules Lingo

23. Ace

A hole-in-one. The holy grail.

24. Birdie

1 stroke under par.

25. Eagle

2 strokes under par.

26. Par

Expected number of throws for the hole.

27. Bogey / Double Bogey

1 or 2 strokes over par.

28. OB (Out of Bounds)

Areas where your disc is considered “out,” often adding a penalty stroke.

**Mando (Mandatory) means you must throw disc on the stated side of the Mando direction.

Plastic & Disc Condition Terms

29. Beat-In

A disc that has hit enough trees/ground to become more understable.

30. Fresh

Brand-new disc, still has its original flight.

31. Domey / Flat Top

Describes how the disc’s top is shaped — affects glide and stability.

32. Chalky / Grippy

Refers to feel — some plastics grab the hand better than others.

Culture & Community Phrases

33. Card

Your group of players in a tournament round.

34. “Nice!” / “Good Bid!”

Compliments on good shots or close attempts.

35. “Grow the Sport”

A common phrase celebrating disc golf expansion and inclusiveness.

36. “Circle 1 / Circle 2”

• Circle 1: within 10 meters — standard putting zone

• Circle 2: 10–20 meters — jump putts allowed

Bonus: Fun Slang Only Disc Golfers Use

• “Snowman” → an 8 on a hole

• “Grip-Lock” → held onto the disc too long, threw way right (RHBH)

• “Ground-Play” → the disc skips or slides forward after landing

• “Tombstone” → disc sticks into the ground vertically

• “Death Putt” → putt with danger (OB, cliff, water) directly behind the basket

Final Thoughts

Disc golf culture is one of the sport’s best qualities — fun, creative, and always evolving.Whether you’re brand new to the game or a seasoned grinder, knowing the lingo helps you understand the strategy, appreciate the game, and feel part of the community.