Birdie

A birdie is a score of one stroke under par on a hole. For example, scoring 3 on a par-4 hole or 2 on a par-3 hole.

The term originated in the United States in the early 20th century. At the Atlantic City Country Club in 1903, Ab Smith hit his second shot inches from the cup on a par-4 hole and exclaimed that it was a "bird of a shot."

How Common Are Birdies?

Professional golfers average about 3-5 birdies per round, while amateur golfers with a mid-handicap might make 1-2 birdies per round.