Just like any sport, pickleball comes with its own vocabulary. From “dinks” to “the kitchen,” it can feel like learning a new language. But once you get familiar with the most common pickleball terms, you’ll feel more confident on the court and more connected to the growing community around the sport. Whether you’re new to the game or just brushing up, this list will help you speak the language of pickleball like a pro.
1. The Kitchen (Non-Volley Zone)
The kitchen is the 7-foot area on both sides of the net where volleying is not allowed. If you step into this zone and hit the ball in the air, it’s a fault. You can enter the kitchen only after the ball bounces.
2. Dink
A dink is a soft, controlled shot that drops just over the net into the opponent’s kitchen. It’s a strategic move used to slow down the game and set up a better opportunity.
3. Volley
Hitting the ball out of the air without letting it bounce. Volleys are allowed except when standing in the kitchen.
4. Serve
Every point starts with a serve. In pickleball, serves must be underhand and hit diagonally into the opponent’s service box.
5. Double Bounce Rule
Each side must let the ball bounce once before volleys are allowed. This rule keeps play fair and more accessible for all players.
6. Rally
A rally is the continuous exchange of shots between teams until a point is scored or a fault occurs.
7. Side Out
In doubles, this refers to the end of a team’s service turn. When both players lose their serve, it’s a side out and the serve goes to the other team.
8. Fault
Any rule violation that ends a rally. Common faults include hitting out of bounds, volleying in the kitchen, or serving into the net.
9. Paddle
The main piece of equipment used to hit the ball. Pickleball paddles are solid, lightweight, and come in various materials like graphite, composite, or carbon fiber.
10. Pickleball
The plastic ball with holes used in the game. Outdoor balls are heavier with smaller holes, while indoor balls are lighter with larger holes.
11. Poach
When one player crosses over into their partner’s area to intercept or take a shot. Poaching can be strategic but requires good teamwork.
12. Smash
A powerful overhead shot used to finish a point. Similar to a spike in volleyball.
13. Let Serve
A serve that hits the net but still lands in the correct service box. Unlike tennis, let serves are replayed in pickleball.
14. Erne
An advanced move where a player jumps or runs around the kitchen to volley the ball while remaining outside the zone. It’s flashy, legal, and tough to pull off.
Level Up Your Game With the Right Gear
Now that you’ve mastered the lingo, it’s time to step onto the court with gear that supports your play. At Ramsports, we make premium paddles, stylish apparel, and tournament-ready gear that help beginners grow into confident players.
Speak the language. Play with style. Shop now at ramsports.com.
