Shuttlecock Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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shuttlecock
[ˈʃʌtəlˌkɒk ]
Definition
sports equipment
A shuttlecock is a lightweight projectile used in the game of badminton. It usually has a conical shape and is composed of feathers or a synthetic material attached to a cork base. When struck with a racket, it flies through the air, making it essential for gameplay. The design allows for a stable flight path, making it challenging for players to score points. The shuttlecock is often referred to simply as the 'birdie.'
Synonyms
badminton bird, birdie, feathered projectile.
Examples of usage
- He served the shuttlecock over the net.
- The shuttlecock soared across the court.
- She practiced her swings with a new shuttlecock.
- They played for hours, hitting the shuttlecock back and forth.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History of the Game
- Badminton originated from a game called 'Battledore and Shuttlecock' played in ancient China as far back as 500 BC.
- The modern version of badminton was developed in the 19th century at the Duke of Beaufort's estate in Badminton, Gloucestershire, England.
Materials and Design
- Traditional shuttlecocks are made with a cork base covered in thin leather and 16 feathers, usually goose or duck.
- There are different types of shuttlecocks used for various levels of play: feathered ones for professionals and plastic ones for casual games.
Cultural Significance
- In countries like India, badminton is a popular sport, contributing to the growth and recognition of players like P.V. Sindhu globally.
- International competitions such as the All England Open Badminton Championships highlight the sport's global appeal.
Physics of Play
- The unique shape and construction of a shuttlecock allows it to decelerate quickly, creating a dramatic drop when hit.
- Its flight path is largely affected by the angles at which it is struck, showcasing principles of aerodynamics in sports.
Origin of 'shuttlecock'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'shuttlecock' comes from the combination of 'shuttle', meaning to move, and 'cock', relating to the feathered top.
- Historically, the name reflects the shuttle-like movement of the object during play, mimicking a early weaving shuttle.
The word 'shuttlecock' has its origins in the early 16th century and combines two parts: 'shuttle,' meaning a device for weaving, and 'cock,' which refers to the male bird. The term reflects the design of the object, which resembles a bird with its feathers spread, and its motion resembles the way a shuttle moves back and forth in weaving. The shuttlecock was initially used in a game called 'battledore and shuttlecock,' which is considered a precursor to modern badminton. As the game evolved, the design of the shuttlecock transitioned towards the current feathered form, leading to the formal establishment of badminton in the late 19th century. The use of natural feathers came from a practical approach, as they provided better aerodynamics compared to other materials.