Entertainment / Bowling Glossary

Balance (As Applied To A Player): A player is in balance if, at the point of release, they are able to complete their follow through without falling off to one side; generally means that the release and slide are simultaneous.

Balance Hole: As a general rule, if you take a bowling ball and place the label in front of you and then exactly dissect the ball into two equal halfs, a right and left side, the gross weight of each half . . . View Full Definition

Balk: An incomplete approach taken in which the player walks to the line but does not actually release the ball.

Ball Rack: Portion of ball run, alongside the approach, on which balls remain after their return from the pit. The ball rack is now generally in the center of each pair of lanes.

Ball Return: The physical part of the equipment upon which the ball sits after being sent back to you after a delivery.

Ball Spinner: A machine that is used to spin a ball in a container (half/bowl) so that the user can apply ball polish or sand the ball down more quickly; excellent tool to have at home.

Ball Track: (1) the area of the lane where most balls are thrown; (2) the area on a ball here the ball rolls; most balls will show scratches and wear in this area after several games.

Balsa: A hit on the head pin with little power behind it.

Barmaid: A pin that's hidden behind another pin.

Barn Door: Any favorable WOOD directly in front of the key pin(s), (ROAD BLOCK.)

BB: A ball thrown with extra speed; see bullet and rocket.

Beak: The nose; the center of the headpin.

Bed: The area surrounding the lane, including the approach, the pit, and the gutters.

Bed Posts: The 7-10 split.

Beer Frame: In team play (usually of three or more players), either (a) a pre-designated frame in which the player with the lowest pin count on the first ball buys some type of refreshment; or (b) when . . . View Full Definition

Behind The Ball: The act of keeping your wrist firm through the shot, not imparting any side rotation by coming around the ball.

Belly The Ball: Describes the type of shot where a players stands inside and tosses it to the outside in the hope it returns to the pocket for a strike; I was standing on board 20, bellying to 8 at forty feet.

Bench Jockeying: As in baseball, conversation or gibes meant to distract an opponent.

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