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Shuffleboard Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shuffleboard

[ˈʃʌf.əl.bɔːrd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

game sport

Shuffleboard is a cue sport where players use deck brushes to slide weighted pucks down a narrow, elongated court. The goal is to have your pucks land in the highest scoring sections of the court while avoiding the opponent's snacks. It is played in various formats, both informally and competitively, and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Synonyms

board shuffle, deck shuffleboard, puck game.

Examples of usage

  • We played shuffleboard at the beach house.
  • He practiced shuffleboard every weekend.
  • The shuffleboard tournament drew a large crowd.
  • I love playing shuffleboard with friends at the bar.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The game likely originated in England during the 15th century, evolving from the lawn game 'shovel board'.
  • Shuffleboard became popular in the United States in the early 20th century, especially among cruise ships and in retirement communities.
  • The game was featured in the 1930s as a popular pastime on ocean liners, highlighting its social aspect.

Pop Culture

  • Shuffleboard has made appearances in various TV shows and movies, showcasing its reputation as a social and relaxing game.
  • In the classic film 'The Graduate,' the game is depicted as a leisurely activity, symbolizing the carefree lifestyle of its time.
  • The game was also featured in popular video games, showing its enduring appeal across generations.

Science

  • Playing shuffleboard can improve hand-eye coordination as players must aim and slide their pieces accurately.
  • The physics of the game involves friction and momentum, demonstrating basic principles of motion and force.
  • Research shows that games like shuffleboard can enhance cognitive skills by requiring strategy and spatial reasoning.

Psychology

  • Engaging in games like shuffleboard can boost mood and promote feelings of relaxation and fun.
  • Social interaction during gameplay is known to enhance relationships and build community among players.
  • Competitive elements in shuffleboard can drive motivation and improve focus, benefiting mental health.

Sports and Recreation

  • Shuffleboard is recognized as a competitive sport, with amateur and professional leagues hosting tournaments worldwide.
  • The International Shuffleboard Association, established to promote the game, governs official competitions and rules.
  • Different versions of shuffleboard exist, such as tabletop shuffleboard, which varies in rules, strategies, and equipment.

Origin of 'shuffleboard'

The term 'shuffleboard' dates back to the 15th century, originally used to describe games played on a narrow court with sliding pucks. The word combines 'shuffle', which means to slide, and 'board', referring to the playing surface. The game has roots in various European regions, with similar games played in both England and Scandinavia. The modern version we know today gained popularity in the United States in the 19th century, particularly in seaside resorts and cruise ships, where it became a favored pastime for social gatherings. Over time, different variations emerged, including deck shuffleboard, which is played on a larger outdoor court, and table shuffleboard, which is played on smaller tables. The game continues to be popular in social settings, with leagues and competitions held across the country.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,211, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.