Pronunciation: [dˈɒɡlɛɡ] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "dogleg" may seem strange at first, but it actually follows a common pattern in English. The first syllable, "dog," is pronounced with a long "o" sound, represented in IPA as /dɔg/. The second syllable, "leg," is pronounced with a short "e" sound, represented as /lɛg/. The overall word is typically used in golf to describe a hole that curves to the left or right, making it more challenging for players.
A dogleg is a term that is commonly used in golf and refers to a type of hole design where the fairway changes direction abruptly, creating an angle or sharp bend. In the context of golf, the term "dogleg" is attributed to the shape that a dog's hind leg makes when it is bent and is therefore used to describe the shape of the fairway. Typically, a dogleg hole features a tee shot that requires the golfer to navigate around a corner or bend to reach the green.
In addition to golf, the term "dogleg" is also used in other contexts, such as in aviation or racing, to describe a bend or turn in a certain route or track. For instance, in aviation, a dogleg could refer to a maneuver or change in course that helps pilots avoid obstacles or adjust to air traffic flow.
Figuratively, the term "dogleg" can also be used to describe a deviation or change in direction in any domain, not just sports or transportation. For example, it can refer to a path or journey that takes an unexpected turn or a plan that faces unexpected obstacles and requires adjustments. In these cases, the term captures the essence of an unexpected twist or bend in the route or course being followed.
The etymology of the word "dogleg" can be traced back to the Old English word "docga" for "dog" or "duguc" meaning "bend" or "hook". The term originally referred to the crooked shape of a dog's hind leg. Over time, it started being used metaphorically to describe anything that had a bend or curve resembling that of a dog's leg. In the 19th century, the term began to be used in golf to describe a fairway or hole that had a sharp bend or turn, similar to the curve of a dog's leg. Gradually, "dogleg" became a common term in golf and expanded to refer to any bend or turn in a road, path, or other contexts.
