The spelling of "bowling green" may seem straightforward, but its pronunciation can be tricky. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /ˈbəʊlɪŋ ɡriːn/. The first syllable, "bowling," has a long "o" sound and is stressed. The second syllable, "green," has a long "e" sound. It is important to note that the "w" in "bowling" is silent, and the "r" in "green" is not pronounced. So, the correct pronunciation is "BOH-ling Green."
A bowling green is a specifically designed, meticulously manicured playing surface or lawn used for the sport of lawn bowls. It is a designated area where players participate in the game by rolling biased balls towards a smaller target ball known as the jack or kitty.
Typically rectangular in shape and composed of closely trimmed, level grass, a bowling green serves as the arena for lawn bowling matches. The dimensions of a bowling green may vary, but it is usually around 40-42 meters in length, and 5-6 meters in width. The playing surface is carefully prepared to ensure a consistent and smooth playing experience, featuring a finely rolled and maintained grass turf.
Bowling greens often consist of several parallel strips or rinks, separated by borders or ditches. The precise dimensions and markings of these rinks depend on the specific rules and regulations of the particular variant of lawn bowls being played.
Maintaining a bowling green demands a high level of maintenance and expertise. It requires regular mowing, leveling, and other necessary maintenance tasks to ensure an even playing surface that promotes fair competition.
Bowling greens have historically been a central gathering point for participants and enthusiasts of lawn bowls, fostering a sense of camaraderie and friendly competition. The term "bowling green" can also be used more broadly to refer to the entire premises or club dedicated to the sport of lawn bowls.
A place for playing at bowls.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "bowling green" has a straightforward etymology. The term originates from the sport of bowling, which involves rolling a ball to knock down pins. The word "green" refers to the grassy area or lawn on which the game is played. Over time, the term "bowling green" came to specifically denote the designated area for playing the game.