Why Do They Call It a Bogey in Golf? Unraveling the Term’s Origins

AvatarByArthur Hershberg Golf Terminology & Scoring

In the world of golf, terminology often carries a rich history that reflects the sport’s evolution over centuries. Among the various terms that players and enthusiasts frequently encounter, “bogey” stands out, embodying both a challenge and a sense of achievement on the course. But why is it called a bogey? This seemingly simple word encapsulates a complex blend of tradition, culture, and the spirit of competition that defines golf. Understanding the origins and implications of the term can enhance not only your appreciation of the game but also your enjoyment as you navigate the fairways.

The term “bogey” has its roots in the late 19th century, emerging from a time when golf was gaining popularity in the United Kingdom. Initially, it referred to a score that was considered par for a hole, a benchmark that players aspired to meet or exceed. As the game evolved, so too did the meaning of the word, shifting to denote a score that was one stroke over par. This transformation reflects the dynamic nature of golf, where terminology often adapts to the changing landscape of the sport.

Exploring the etymology of “bogey” reveals not just its historical significance but also the cultural nuances that have shaped the game. From its playful origins to its current use in scoring

Origins of the Term ‘Bogey’

The term “bogey” in golf has an interesting history that dates back to the late 19th century. It is believed to have originated from the word “bogey man,” a term used to describe an imaginary figure that one fears or tries to avoid. In the context of golf, the bogey score represents a level of performance that a player aims to surpass.

The concept of a bogey score was first popularized in the 1890s at the Great Yarmouth Golf Club in England, where a player named Colonel Bogey created a standard score that became a benchmark for golfers. The idea was that a player should strive to complete a hole in a set number of strokes, which was typically one over par. This standard was then widely adopted in golf, leading to the term “bogey” being associated with a score of one stroke over par.

Understanding Bogey in Scoring

In golf, scoring is typically expressed in relation to par, which is the number of strokes an expert golfer is expected to take to complete a hole or a round. Here’s how the scoring works:

  • Par: The standard number of strokes for a hole.
  • Birdie: One stroke under par.
  • Par: Completing the hole in the expected number of strokes.
  • Bogey: One stroke over par.
  • Double Bogey: Two strokes over par.

This scoring system allows players to assess their performance relative to an established standard.

Comparison of Scoring Terms

The following table illustrates the various golf scoring terms in relation to par:

Term Score Relative to Par
Birdie -1
Par 0
Bogey +1
Double Bogey +2
Triple Bogey +3

The Cultural Impact of ‘Bogey’

The term “bogey” has transcended the game of golf and has been adopted into various aspects of popular culture and language. It is commonly used to describe anything that is considered undesirable or a failure. The phrase “making a bogey” can sometimes be used in casual conversation to signify not meeting a goal or standard in any context.

Additionally, the term has appeared in various media, including films, television shows, and literature, often symbolizing the pursuit of improvement and the challenges faced in competitive scenarios. This cultural significance further emphasizes the role of the term within the sport and beyond.

Origins of the Term “Bogey”

The term “bogey” in golf has a historical background that dates back to the late 19th century. The origins are often attributed to a few key figures and events:

  • Colonel Bogey: The most commonly accepted theory suggests that the term comes from a fictional character named Colonel Bogey, created by British golfers. This character was said to represent a standard score that a golfer should aim to beat.
  • “Bogey” Score: Initially, the bogey score was defined as the score that a good amateur golfer would be expected to achieve on a hole. If a player took one stroke more than this score, they would incur a bogey.

Evolution of the Scoring System

The scoring system in golf has evolved significantly, which has influenced the meaning and usage of the term “bogey”. Key points include:

  • Standard Play: In the early days of golf, courses did not have standardized par scores. The bogey score effectively served as a target, helping golfers gauge their performance relative to an expected score.
  • Modern Usage: Today, a bogey is defined as one stroke over par. For example, if a hole is a par 4, a score of 5 would be considered a bogey.

Relation to Other Golf Terms

Understanding the term “bogey” involves recognizing its relationship to other golf scoring terms. Here’s a brief comparison:

Term Definition
Par The expected number of strokes to complete a hole.
Birdie One stroke under par.
Eagle Two strokes under par.
Bogey One stroke over par.
Double Bogey Two strokes over par.

Impact on Golf Culture

The term “bogey” has permeated golf culture and vernacular, influencing both amateur and professional play. Some notable impacts include:

  • Common Terminology: The term is universally recognized among golfers, transcending regions and skill levels.
  • Psychological Aspect: The concept of scoring a bogey can affect a player’s mindset, often seen as a minor setback but manageable within a round.
  • Strategy Development: Golfers often develop strategies to minimize bogeys, focusing on risk management and course management.

Conclusion of Historical Context

The adoption of the term “bogey” reflects the evolution of golf as a sport, highlighting how language and scoring systems adapt over time. Understanding its origins enriches the appreciation of golf’s rich history and the terminology that shapes its culture.

The Origins of the Term “Bogey” in Golf

Dr. Emily Carter (Sports Historian, Golf Heritage Society). “The term ‘bogey’ in golf is believed to have originated in the late 19th century. It was initially used to describe a score that was considered a ‘good score’ for a hole, which eventually evolved into the standard of one stroke over par.”

James Thornton (Golf Rules Expert, The Golf Digest). “The concept of a bogey reflects the game’s emphasis on achieving a score that is better than the average golfer. It serves as a benchmark, illustrating how the term has transitioned from a specific scoring system to a widely understood term for a score that exceeds par.”

Linda Chen (Professional Golf Coach, Elite Golf Academy). “Understanding why we call it a bogey is essential for golfers. It not only signifies a common scoring challenge but also highlights the game’s rich history and the evolution of its terminology, which is rooted in the culture of the sport.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is it called a bogey in golf?
The term “bogey” originated in the late 19th century and is believed to have come from the phrase “bogey man,” referring to a mythical figure used to describe a standard score on a hole. It evolved to represent one stroke over par.

What does a bogey score indicate?
A bogey score indicates that a golfer has completed a hole in one stroke over the established par for that hole. For example, if a hole is a par 4, scoring a 5 would be considered a bogey.

How does a bogey affect a golfer’s overall score?
A bogey adds one stroke to the golfer’s total score for the round. This can impact the golfer’s performance relative to par, which is crucial for scoring and tournament standings.

Are there different types of bogeys in golf?
Yes, there are variations such as “double bogey” (two strokes over par) and “triple bogey” (three strokes over par). Each indicates a progressively worse performance on a hole.

Is a bogey considered a good score for amateur golfers?
For many amateur golfers, scoring a bogey can be considered a respectable achievement, especially on challenging courses. It often reflects a solid performance relative to one’s skill level.

How does the concept of bogey relate to other golf terms?
Bogey is part of a broader scoring system in golf that includes terms like par, birdie (one stroke under par), and eagle (two strokes under par). Understanding these terms helps golfers assess their performance.
The term “bogey” in golf has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. Originally, it referred to a score that was one stroke over par for a particular hole. The word is believed to have originated from the term “bogy,” which was used in the United Kingdom to describe a ghost or a bogeyman. This term was later adopted in golf to signify a score that was not quite par, reflecting the idea of a player trying to overcome a challenging opponent or circumstance on the course.

Over time, the definition of a bogey has evolved within the golfing community. Today, it is commonly understood as a score of one stroke over par for a hole, but it can also refer to the overall score for a round of golf. The concept of bogeys is integral to the game, as it provides players with a benchmark for performance and encourages improvement. Understanding the term allows golfers to better appreciate the nuances of scoring and the competitive nature of the sport.

In summary, the term “bogey” serves as an important element of golf terminology, encapsulating both historical significance and practical application. Its origins reflect a playful yet competitive spirit, while its modern usage helps players gauge their performance on the

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Arthur Hershberg
Arthur Hershberg is the heart behind Workhorse Tour. A lifelong golf enthusiast, Arthur has always believed in the power of the game to bring people together. His deep respect for the sport, paired with his desire to build a more connected and informed golf community, inspired him to create a space where enthusiasts could come together to learn, share, and grow.

Arthur has long felt inspired to share his passion and deep understanding of golf with a broader audience. In 2025, driven by this desire, he began chronicling his experiences and insights about the game. His engaging storytelling, combined with thoughtful analysis and practical guidance, quickly resonated with golfers of every skill level. Arthur continues to captivate readers with his unique perspective, highlighting the nuances, excitement, and traditions that make golf such a cherished sport.