Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, and it’s easy to see why. With its unique blend of strategy, fun, and fast-paced gameplay, it’s perfect for players of all ages and skill levels. But if you’re new to the sport, you’ve probably overheard seasoned players shouting terms like “kitchen!” or “dink!” and wondered, What are they talking about?
Fear not! We’ve got you covered with an accessible yet expert glossary to bring you up to speed on pickleball lingo so you can sound like a pro—even if you're just learning to serve.
The Essentials of Pickleball Talk
Below, we’ve broken down the most common (and quirky) terms you’ll hear on the court. Whether you’re prepping for your first game or simply curious about pickleball culture, this glossary is your ticket to understanding the sport.
Court-Specific Terms
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The Kitchen
The “kitchen” is the non-volley zone on the court, located within 7 feet on either side of the net. You can’t step into the kitchen and hit the ball unless it bounces first. Think of it as the ultimate stay-out zone. -
Baseline
The back boundary line of the court. This is where you’ll line up for serves, and staying on the baseline can help you defend against tricky shots. -
Service Court
The area on the court where the serve must land. It’s split into two sections on either side of the centerline.
Gameplay Terms
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Serve
The first shot that starts a point. Pickleball serves must be hit underhand and diagonally to the opponent’s service court. Fancy? No. Effective? Absolutely. -
Rally
A sequence where the ball goes back and forth between players during a point. The longer the rally, the more intense (and entertaining) it gets. -
Dink
A soft shot meant to land in your opponent’s kitchen, forcing them to hit upwards. Dinks require finesse and are key to dominating the net game. -
Volley
Hitting the ball out of the air before it bounces. Just make sure you’re not standing in the kitchen! -
Drop Shot
A high-skill move where you hit the ball just hard enough to barely clear the net and fall into the kitchen area. It’s all about precision and timing.
Scoring and Rules
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Pickle
The game itself can jokingly be referred to as “the pickle.” If you hear players saying “Want to play pickle?” you’re not about to eat brine-soaked cucumbers. -
Fault
A rule violation that causes a point to end. This could include serving out of bounds, stepping into the kitchen during a volley, or missing the ball entirely. -
Side Out
This term means the serving team has lost the point, and the opposing team is now serving. -
Double Bounce Rule
On the serve, the ball must bounce once on each side of the net before it can be volleyed. No skipping this step, folks.
Fun & Quirky Lingo
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Paddle Tap
The pickleball equivalent of a high-five at the end of a game. Players tap their paddles as a sign of sportsmanship. -
Flapjack
A shot that must bounce once before being hit. If you hear “flapjack,” think of it as pickleball’s way of making you wait your turn. -
ATP (Around the Post)
A daring shot that goes around the net post rather than over the net. It looks impossible, but we promise it’s totally legal (and super impressive). -
Lob
A high, defensive shot meant to go over your opponent's head, often forcing them to backpedal awkwardly. Effective and maybe a little humiliating for the recipient. -
Ernie
A sneaky move where a player jumps over the kitchen line to hit a ball before it’s volleyed. Not for the faint of heart (or weak knees).
And, Most Importantly…
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Pickled
When a team loses a game by a score of 11-0. It stings, but hey, there’s always the next game!
Why Act Like a Pro When You Can Dress Like One?
Now that your vocabulary is on-point, it’s time to make an impression on the court. Whether you’re a casual player or aspire to master the kitchen, showing up in style can give you an edge. That’s where RND Streetwear comes in.
RND Streetwear offers an epic collection of pickleball clothing that goes beyond the dull, generic sportswear. Here are some standouts from their lineup that also make perfect pickleball gift ideas for the enthusiasts in your life:
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Play Like It’s Your Last Game T-Shirt
Featuring a Grim Reaper and a flaming paddle, this shirt says it all. -
No Mercy Flaming Heart T-Shirt
Ideal for mixed doubles warriors looking to intimidate their opponents. -
Pickleball Beanie
Cozy and stylish, this beanie completes your look on and off the court. -
Pickleball Joggers
Whether you’re lounging or gearing up for a game, these joggers combine comfort and edge.
Looking for something that combines performance with personality? Check out RND’s dry-fit performance tanks or hoodies with bold, pickleball-themed designs.
Gear Up for the Courts
From understanding the quirky terminology to dressing like a pro, you’re now ready to elevate your pickleball experience. Want to make your mark on the court and in style? Visit RND Streetwear today and explore awesome pickleball clothing and pickleball gift ideas that are sure to turn heads.
Game on! 🏓
