Pronunciation: [ʃˈaŋkɪŋ] (IPA) 
The word "shanking" is spelled with a "sh" sound at the beginning, followed by the vowel sound "a" as in "cat", and the "ng" sound at the end. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /ʃæŋkɪŋ/. This word is commonly used in sports like golf or tennis, where it refers to an improper shot that doesn't hit the ball squarely. To avoid shanking, players must work on their technique and proper swing mechanics.
Shanking, derived from the verb "shank," refers to the act of striking or hitting something, often with an unintended or undesired effect. The term is commonly used in several contexts.
In the realm of sports, particularly golf or tennis, shanking occurs when a player's club or racket makes contact with the ball in an unintended way, resulting in an erratic or wayward shot. This generally happens when the player misjudges the point of contact or fails to maintain the proper swing path. Consequently, the ball may veer off course, often with diminished power or control.
In a more general sense, shanking can also refer to a clumsy or poorly executed action that produces an unintended outcome. This can be seen in other sports, such as soccer, when a player miskicks the ball, causing it to go in an unintended direction or lacking power. Similarly, in daily activities, a person may accidentally strike an object or a surface with an object, resulting in unintended consequences like breakage, injury, or damage.
Moreover, beyond sports-related scenarios, shanking can describe the act of stabbing, particularly with a makeshift or improvised weapon, like a homemade knife or shiv. This usage is more prevalent in prison or criminal contexts.
Overall, shanking encompasses a range of meanings, all revolving around unintentional, inaccurate, or clumsy strikes or hits. Whether in sports, general activities, or even criminal contexts, shanking implies an action fraught with unintended consequences.
The word "shanking" is derived from the noun "shank", which dates back to Middle English. In Old English, "sceanca" referred to the lower leg, shinbone, or shank of an animal. Eventually, the term also came to be used for the lower part of a person's leg. The verb form "shank" or "shankle" appeared in the 16th century, meaning to walk or march with long strides. Over time, "shank" took on various meanings, including the part of a tool or implement between the handle and the working part.
In contemporary English, the verb "to shank" has a specific context within sports, particularly in football (soccer) and golf. It refers to an unintended and poorly executed kick or swing that results in the ball veering off-course, usually characterized by a mis-hit that causes it to slice or move uncontrolled.
