Pickleball Lingo 101: Essential Terms Every Player Should Know
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Pickleball has its own unique language, and if you’re new to the game (or even a seasoned player), understanding the terminology can make you a better competitor and part of the community. Whether you’re dinking at the kitchen line or hitting a perfect Erne, here’s your ultimate guide to the most important pickleball terms!
Basic Pickleball Terms
Dink
A soft shot that is gently hit just over the net, usually landing in the opponent’s non-volley zone (a.k.a. "the kitchen").
Kitchen (Non-Volley Zone)
The 7-foot area on both sides of the net where volleys (hitting the ball before it bounces) are not allowed. If you step into the kitchen and volley the ball—sorry, that’s a fault!
Volley
Striking the ball in the air before it bounces. Just make sure you’re outside the kitchen when you do it!
Serve
The starting shot of each point, hit diagonally to the opponent’s service box. It must be made underhand with the paddle below the waist.
Side Out
When the serving team loses the rally, and service moves to the other team.
Advanced Pickleball Terms
Erne
A flashy, advanced move where a player jumps outside the kitchen to hit a volley close to the net. If you see someone doing this, they mean business!
ATP (Around-the-Post Shot)
A spectacular shot where the ball is hit around the net post, instead of over the net. It’s one of the most exciting shots in pickleball!
Third Shot Drop
A strategic soft shot hit by the serving team on their third shot, designed to land in the opponent’s kitchen and allow for a transition to the net.
Bert
A surprise poach (intercepting a shot meant for your partner) where the player crosses the centerline and smashes the ball—often catching the opponent off guard.
Falafel
A shot that is hit too soft and doesn’t have enough power, making it an easy return for your opponent. Don’t serve up a falafel unless you’re setting up a dink battle!
Fun & Quirky Pickleball Terms
Pickled
When a team is shut out, losing a game 11-0. Ouch.
Pickle!
A fun term sometimes shouted before serving, similar to “fore!” in golf.
Stacking
A strategic positioning technique where players shift their positions to optimize their strengths, often used in doubles play.
Why Learning Pickleball Lingo Matters
Knowing these terms not only helps you communicate better on the court but also makes the game more fun and engaging. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, understanding pickleball slang can give you a competitive edge and help you connect with fellow players.
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