Darts is a popular and thrilling game enjoyed by people worldwide. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, understanding the terminology used in darts is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key darts terms and expressions that will enhance your darting knowledge and improve your gameplay. Let’s dive into the exciting world of darts terminology!
Bullseye:
The bullseye is the central target area on the dartboard and carries the highest points.
Oche:
The oche is the designated throwing line from where all darts must be thrown, ensuring fair play.
Double:
The double is a specific section on the dartboard, divided into two equal parts by a thin outer ring. Hitting the double is often crucial to finishing a game.
Triple:
The triple is the inner ring of a specific number on the dartboard, marked by a thicker ring. Hitting the triple increases the score by three times the value of that number.
Score:
The score refers to the total points earned from a particular throw or round, determining the progress of the game.
Leg:
A leg is a single game within a match. Matches usually consist of multiple legs, and winning the majority of legs leads to victory.
Match:
A match refers to a series of legs played to determine an overall winner between players or teams.
Checkout:
The checkout is the final sequence of darts needed to reduce the score to zero and win the leg or match.
Bust:
Bust occurs when a player’s score exceeds zero or goes below zero, resulting in that particular turn being invalidated and no score reduction.
Tungsten:
Tungsten is the material used to make high-quality darts, known for its durability and balanced weight distribution.
Flight:
The flight is the small, fin-like component at the end of a dart that helps stabilize its flight through the air.
Barrel:
The barrel is the main body of the dart, typically made of tungsten or brass.
Shaft:
The shaft is the portion of the dart that connects the barrel to the flight, providing stability during the throw.
Grip:
The grip refers to the way a player holds and controls the dart during the throw, affecting accuracy and control.
Average:
The average is the average score per dart thrown, calculated by dividing the total score by the number of darts thrown.
180:
A 180 is the maximum score achievable with three darts, achieved by hitting the triple 20 segment.
Scoring Area:
The scoring area includes the different sections of the dartboard, such as the singles, doubles, trebles, and bullseye, where players aim to score points.
Marker:
A marker is a player or official responsible for keeping score and marking the dartboard during a game.
Sideline:
The sideline refers to spectators or individuals who watch the game from the side, offering support and enjoying the thrilling competition.
Diddle for Middle:
Diddle for Middle is a practice where players throw one dart each, aiming for the bullseye to determine who goes first, ensuring a fair start.
Shanghai:
Shanghai is a scoring technique where a player scores points by hitting the single, double, and triple of a particular number in consecutive throws.
Splitting:
Splitting is a strategic approach where a player aims to leave themselves with an even number for their next throw, setting up a better chance of finishing the game quickly.
Cover Shot:
A cover shot is a shot aimed at hitting a particular number to leave a favorable score or setup for the next throw, strategizing for optimal scoring opportunities.
Missed Double:
A missed double occurs when a player fails to hit the required double segment to finish the game, resulting in missed opportunities.
Follow Through:
The follow-through is the continuation of the throwing motion after releasing the dart, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
Switching:
Switching is the act of targeting a different number on the dartboard to set up a better scoring opportunity or to avoid obstacles, strategizing for optimal performance.
Sudden Death:
Sudden death is a tiebreaker situation where players or teams continue playing until a clear winner emerges, intensifying the excitement of the game.
Closed Bed:
Closed bed refers to when all segments of a number on the dartboard have been hit and closed by a player or team, providing an advantage in scoring.
Slop:
Slop refers to accidental points scored by hitting unintended areas on the dartboard, adding an element of unpredictability to the game.
Bull Up:
Bull up is a process to determine who throws first by having players or teams throw one dart each, aiming for the bullseye, with the closest to the bullseye going first.
Tons: A term used to describe scoring 100 points in a single round.
Checkout Chart: A visual reference or table that assists players in determining the combinations needed to reach zero from different starting scores.
Treble Trouble: A situation where a player consistently struggles to hit the treble segments, resulting in lower scores.
Walk-On: The moment when a player enters the playing area, usually accompanied by music and applause.
Dartitis: A psychological condition characterized by a sudden loss of confidence or control in throwing darts.
Muggins: A variant of darts where players can score points for hitting numbers that opponents have already closed.
Shanghai League: A league format where players compete in Shanghai games, aiming to score points on a specific number in each round.
Power Scoring: Achieving high scores consistently, often by hitting multiple treble segments.
Tidy Darts: The act of hitting the intended target area or segment with precision and accuracy.
Spectacular Out: A dramatic finish to a game where a player hits a difficult combination to reach zero.
Hat Trick: Achieving three consecutive wins or three perfect throws (e.g., three 180s) in a game or match.
Flight School: A training program or series of lessons focused on improving dart throwing technique.
Dead Center: Hitting the bullseye dead center, demonstrating exceptional accuracy.
Feathering: A technique where a player gently releases the dart, creating a smooth and controlled throw.
Archer’s Eye: The ability to instinctively aim and hit the desired target without a prolonged aiming process.
Bullfighter: A player who excels at hitting the bullseye consistently.
Overstacking: Accumulating a high score in one round, often by hitting multiple treble segments.
Checkout Specialist: A player who possesses exceptional skills in finishing games with precise combinations.
Red Eye: Referring to hitting the triple 20 segment, which is traditionally marked with a red color.
Dartboard Maintenance: The regular cleaning and upkeep of the dartboard to maintain its condition and extend its lifespan.
Lucky Dart: An unexpected or fortunate dart that results in a higher score than initially intended.
Power Play: A focused and aggressive style of play characterized by aiming for high-scoring segments.
Dartboard Cabinet: A protective enclosure for the dartboard, often containing scoreboards and dart storage compartments.
Darting Community: The collective group of darts enthusiasts, players, and fans who share a passion for the sport.
Darts Exhibition: A special event where professional players showcase their skills and entertain the audience with impressive throws and trick shots.
Dart Grip Wax: A substance applied to the fingers to improve grip and control of the dart during the throw.
Sidelight: The ambient lighting placed on the sides of the dartboard to enhance visibility and create a captivating playing environment.
Dartboard Surround: A foam or rubber padding placed around the dartboard to protect walls and minimize dart bounce-outs.
Darts Scorekeeper App: A mobile application that allows players to track scores, statistics, and progress during games.
Darting Legends: Respected and renowned players who have achieved great success and made significant contributions to the sport of darts.
Dartboard Rotation: A practice where players rotate the dartboard periodically to prevent excessive wear on specific areas.
Spotting: The process of marking the scoring area on the dartboard using chalk or another marker to indicate darts that have landed outside the scoring sections.
Practice Routine: A structured series of drills and exercises designed to improve accuracy, consistency, and overall darting skills.
Dart Stance: The specific posture and position adopted by a player before and during the dart throw.
Dart Weight: Refers to the heaviness of the dart, with different players having preferences for varying weights based on personal comfort and throwing style.
Dart Flight Shape: The shape or design of the flight, which can influence the trajectory and stability of the dart during its flight.
Flight Protector: A small accessory that covers and protects the flight from damage during play or transportation.
Dart Case: A container or storage solution designed to hold and protect multiple sets of darts, flights, shafts, and accessories.
Dart Etiquette: The expected behavior and conduct while playing darts, including respecting opponents, maintaining a fair and sportsmanlike attitude, and adhering to the rules of the game.
Darts Hall of Fame: An honor bestowed upon exceptional players, coaches, and contributors to the sport of darts for their outstanding achievements and contributions.
Dartboard Lighting: Specialized lighting systems designed to illuminate the dartboard evenly, minimizing shadows and enhancing visibility for players.
Dartboard Surround Sound: Incorporating sound effects and commentary during dart events to enhance the spectator experience and add excitement to the game.
Oche Tape: A measuring tape or line placed on the floor to ensure accurate placement of the oche, ensuring consistent throwing distances.
Dartboard Rotation: A practice where players rotate the dartboard periodically to prevent excessive wear on specific areas.
Dartboard Protector: A transparent cover placed over the dartboard to protect it from dust, moisture, and damage.
Dartboard Setup: The proper positioning and alignment of the dartboard, including the correct height and distance from the oche.
Dartboard Material: Dartboards are commonly made of sisal fibers or electronic variants with a plastic surface.
Dartboard Mounting: The process of securely attaching the dartboard to a wall or stand for stable gameplay.
Dartboard Sector: The divisions or segments of the dartboard, numbered from 1 to 20, including the outer bullseye and inner bullseye.
Dartboard Wiring System: The metal wiring that separates the different segments on the dartboard, providing clear targets for scoring.
Mastering darts terminology is crucial for any player looking to improve their game and fully immerse themselves in the world of darts. By familiarizing yourself with these key terms, you’ll enhance your understanding of the game and communicate effectively with fellow dart enthusiasts. So, grab your darts, step up to the oche, and embrace the thrilling world of darts with confidence!