Pronunciation: [t͡ʃˈʌkə] (IPA) 
The word "chukker" is an alternate spelling of "chukka", which refers to a period of play in a game of polo. It is pronounced as /ˈtʃʌkər/ and spelled with the letters c, h, u, k, and e. The first syllable is stressed and pronounced with the "ch" sound as in "church". The second syllable is pronounced as "kuh" with a short "u" sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a neutral vowel sound, similar to the "er" in "butter".
Chukker is a noun that refers to a period of play in the sport of polo. Specifically, it pertains to one of the divisions or segments into which the game is divided. Polo is an equestrian team sport played on horseback, usually with two opposing teams of four players each. In each chukker, the players attempt to score goals against the opposition by striking a small ball with a long-handled mallet. A chukker typically lasts for seven and a half minutes, although the duration can vary depending on the level of play.
The concept of chukkers allows for rest and horse changes, as the demanding pace of the game requires fresh horses. After each chukker, players have the opportunity to switch horses for fresh mounts to maintain the intensity and speed of play. Depending on the level of competition, a typical polo game consists of either four or six chukkers.
The term "chukker" is derived from the Persian word "chogān," which refers to the ancient polo game played centuries ago in Persia (modern-day Iran). The word "chukker" entered the English language during the colonial period when the sport was introduced to British India. Over time, it became widely adopted and is now recognized globally as the standard unit of play in polo.
The word "chukker" originates from the sport of polo. The term is derived from the Hindi or Urdu word "chakkar", meaning "circle" or "turn". Polo, believed to have originated in the Indian subcontinent, was introduced to the English-speaking world by British colonialists. The term "chukker" specifically refers to a period of play in polo, with a game typically consisting of several chukkers. Over time, the term has become more widely used, even outside of the polo context, to describe a period of time or a particular section of a game or event.
