Introduction
Hockey is a sport that has its own unique language, filled with slang and lingo that can be confusing to newcomers. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just starting to get into the game, understanding the terminology used on and off the ice can enhance your overall experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the world of hockey slang, exploring popular terms and their meanings. From “apples” to “zebras,” we’ll cover it all.
A – D: Exploring the Basics
Apple: Assisting the Goal
In hockey, an “apple” is a term used to describe an assist, which is the pass that leads to a goal. It’s a way to acknowledge the player who played a crucial role in setting up the scoring opportunity. So, the next time you hear someone say, “He got an apple on that goal,” you’ll know what they mean.
Bar Down: The Perfect Shot
A “bar down” is a goal that results from a shot striking the top crossbar and deflecting down into the net. This type of goal is known for the unique “ding” sound it makes when the puck hits the crossbar. It’s considered a skillful and impressive shot that leaves the goalie helpless.
Barn: The Hockey Arena
When fans refer to the “barn,” they are talking about the hockey arena or rink where the game is played. It’s a term that emphasizes the sense of community and belonging that fans experience when they gather to support their favorite team.
Bender: The Flexible Skater
In hockey slang, a “bender” refers to a player whose ankles bend excessively while they’re skating. It’s often used to describe a player who lacks the proper technique or strength to maintain a stable and upright skating posture. While it may not be a desirable trait, it’s a term that adds a touch of humor to the game.
Beauty/Beautician: Skill and Charisma
A “beauty” or “beautician” is a beloved player known for their exceptional skill and charisma. They are often fan favorites, admired for their on-ice talent and off-ice personalities. These players bring excitement and entertainment to the game, making them a joy to watch.
Biscuit: The Puck
In hockey slang, the term “biscuit” refers to the puck. It’s a playful way of referring to the central object of the game. So, when you hear someone say, “He’s got the biscuit,” they’re simply indicating that a player has possession of the puck.
Blades of Steel: A Classic Video Game
“Blades of Steel” is a hockey video game released in 1987. It was known for its fast-paced action and, notably, the inclusion of fights between players. Although it may be an older game, it holds a special place in the hearts of many hockey fans as a nostalgic representation of the sport.
Bottle Rocket: Knocking Off the Water Bottle
A “bottle rocket” is a term used to describe a shot or goal that knocks the goalie’s water bottle off the back of the net. It’s a display of accuracy and power that adds an extra element of excitement to the game.
Brawl: When Fists Fly
In hockey, a “brawl” refers to a fight between players. While fighting is not officially condoned, it has a long-standing presence in the sport. Brawls can occur due to various reasons, such as retaliation, protecting teammates, or simply as an emotional response to the intensity of the game.
Breakaway: A One-on-One Opportunity
A “breakaway” occurs when a player has a one-on-one opportunity against the opposing goalie. It typically happens when a player manages to outmaneuver the defense and finds themselves with a clear path to the net. It’s an exciting moment that often leads to scoring chances.
Breadbasket: Targeting the Goalie’s Chest
The “breadbasket” refers to the goalie’s chest or torso. It’s called the breadbasket because it’s the most accessible and frequently targeted area for shooters. When someone mentions shooting “high to the breadbasket,” they mean aiming for the upper portion of the goalie’s body.
Brick Wall: The Impenetrable Goalie
A “brick wall” is a term used to describe a goalie who consistently makes countless saves. They are virtually impenetrable, frustrating opponents who struggle to find a way to score against them. A brick wall goalie is an invaluable asset to any team.
Bucket or Cage: The Helmet
In hockey, players often refer to their helmets as either a “bucket” or a “cage.” These terms are interchangeable and reflect the importance of head protection in the game. It’s a reminder of the physicality and potential dangers that players face on the ice.
Celly: Celebrating a Goal
“Celly” is a short form of the word “celebration.” It refers to the act of celebrating after scoring a goal. Players often have unique and creative ways of celebrating their achievements, adding an element of excitement and camaraderie to the game.
Charlestown Chiefs: A Legendary Team
The “Charlestown Chiefs” refers to the team name and mascot from the 1977 cult hockey comedy film, “Slap Shot.” The movie follows the fictional Charlestown Chiefs, a struggling minor league team that gains popularity through their rough and unconventional playing style.
E – J: Exploring the Skills and Plays
Egg: A Game with No Goals
In hockey slang, an “egg” refers to a game that ends with a score of 0-0. It’s a term used to describe a game where neither team manages to score a goal. While it may not be the most exciting outcome, it showcases the skill and determination of the goalies and defenses involved.
Enforcer: The Protector of the Team
An “enforcer” is an unofficial role in ice hockey, typically assigned to a player who is known for protecting their teammates. Enforcers are often physically imposing and are willing to engage in fights or stand up for their team in physical altercations.
Face Wash: A Surprising Gesture
A “face wash” occurs when a player intentionally sticks their open palm into an opponent’s face. It’s a way of asserting dominance or showing frustration during a game. This action is similar to a stiff-arm and often leads to penalties.
Fan: Missing the Shot
To “fan” the puck means to shoot and miss it entirely. It’s a term used to describe a player’s mistake or lack of accuracy when attempting a shot. When someone says, “He fanned on that shot,” it means the player failed to make proper contact with the puck.
Filthy: Skillful and Impressive
In hockey slang, “filthy” is used to positively connote the skill of a pass, shot, or hit. It describes a play that is exceptionally skillful, impressive, or creative. When someone says, “That was a filthy move,” they’re acknowledging the player’s exceptional talent.
Fishbowl: A Full-Face Helmet
A “fishbowl” is a type of helmet with a full plastic face mask instead of the traditional cage. It offers enhanced protection for the player’s face but can also be used playfully as an insult, suggesting that a player is “soft” or overly protected.
Five-Hole: Targeting the Space Between the Legs
The “five-hole” refers to the space between a goalie’s legs. It’s often used to describe a low shot that goes in between the goalie’s legs. Scoring through the five-hole requires precision and accuracy, as it’s considered one of the goaltender’s vulnerable areas.
Flamingo: Evading a Shot
To “flamingo” is to describe the pose a player makes when they lift a leg to get out of the way of an oncoming shot. It’s a defensive maneuver used to avoid getting hit by the puck while maintaining balance and agility on the ice.
Flash the Leather: Impressive Glove Save
When a goalie or defender makes an impressive glove save, it’s referred to as “flashing the leather.” It’s a term that highlights the speed and skill required to catch a shot with the glove hand. Flashing the leather often leads to applause from the crowd.
Flow: A Player’s Long Hair
In hockey slang, “flow” refers to a player’s long hair. It’s a term used to describe a player’s distinctive hairstyle, often flowing out from under their helmet as they skate. Flow is often seen as a symbol of individuality and style within the hockey community.
Geno/Gino: Scoring a Goal
“Geno” or “Gino” is a term used to describe a goal in hockey. It’s a shortened version of the word “goal” and is often used by fans to express excitement when their team scores. So, when you hear someone shout, “Nice gino!” they’re celebrating a successful goal.
Gongshow: A Chaotic Game
A “gongshow” refers to a game that is chaotic and filled with fights, penalties, goals, or any combination of the three. It’s a term used to describe a game that is eventful and unpredictable, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Goon: The Fighter on the Ice
A “goon” is a player who is known specifically for their fighting skills or enforcing physicality on the ice. While fighting is not the primary focus of the game, goons play an important role in protecting their teammates and maintaining the team’s physical presence.
Gordie Howe Hat Trick: A Versatile Performance
A “Gordie Howe hat trick” occurs when a player achieves a goal, an assist, and a fight in the same game. It’s named after the legendary hockey player Gordie Howe, who was known for his versatility and ability to contribute in multiple ways during games.
The Great One: Wayne Gretzky’s Legacy
“The Great One” is a nickname given to Wayne Gretzky, widely regarded as the best hockey player of all time. Gretzky’s exceptional skill, hockey IQ, and scoring ability earned him this title. He holds numerous records and is an iconic figure in the world of hockey.
Greasy: A Chaotic Goal
A “greasy” goal is one that’s neither smooth nor elegant. It’s often made in a chaotic manner, with players battling in front of the net and scrambling to get the puck past the goalie. Greasy goals are a testament to a player’s determination and willingness to do whatever it takes to score.
Grinder: The Hardworking Player
A “grinder” is a player who is known for making effort plays rather than relying on skill alone. They excel at doing the dirty work, such as battling in the corners, forechecking aggressively, and providing energy to their team. Grinders are highly valued for their work ethic and dedication to the game.
Grocery Stick: The Benchwarmer
A “grocery stick” is a term used to describe a player who spends most of their time on the bench between defensemen and forwards. They rarely see playing time and are often referred to as the “extra” player. While their role may be limited, they play a crucial part in supporting their team.
Hands: Skillful Puck Handling
In hockey, “hands” is a term used to describe a player’s skill with the puck. It refers to their ability to handle the puck with finesse, making smooth moves and outmaneuvering opponents effortlessly. Players with exceptional hands are often a joy to watch and can create scoring opportunities.
Handcuffed: Denied by the Goalie
To be “handcuffed” is to describe a player who has been denied on every scoring chance by the goalie or defender. It’s a frustrating experience for the offensive player, as they struggle to find a way to beat the goaltender. Handcuffed players often need to adjust their strategy to overcome the challenge.
Hanging from the Rafters: Retired Jerseys
When jerseys are retired, they are often referred to as “hanging from the rafters.” This term signifies the ultimate honor bestowed upon players who have made significant contributions to the team. Retired jerseys serve as a timeless reminder of the players’ achievements and their lasting impact on the franchise.
Holy Grail: The Coveted Stanley Cup®
“The Holy Grail” is a nickname for the Stanley Cup®, the ultimate prize in professional hockey. It’s a trophy awarded annually to the team that wins the NHL playoffs. The Stanley Cup® has a rich history and is revered by players and fans alike as the pinnacle of achievement in the sport.
Howitzer: The Powerful Slap Shot
A “howitzer” is a term used to describe a fast and powerful slap shot. It refers to the sheer velocity and force behind the shot, often making it difficult for the goalie to react in time. Players with a lethal howitzer are known for their ability to unleash powerful shots from the point.
Hoser: A Playful Insult
“Hoser” is a lighthearted insult used to describe an opponent or someone who is considered a loser. While it may not carry a significant weight, it adds a touch of playful banter to the game. It’s a term that reflects the friendly rivalry and camaraderie among fans and players.
Journeyman: The Well-Traveled Player
A “journeyman” is a player who has played for a large number of teams throughout their career. They are known for their versatility and adaptability, as they often move from team to team, contributing wherever they go. Journeyman players have a wealth of experience and can provide valuable insights to their teammates.
Junction (Junk): The Corner of the Goal
The “junction” or “junk” refers to the corner of the goal where the crossbar and the posts meet. It’s a specific area that players aim for when trying to score goals. Shots that find the junction often result in the puck bouncing off the post or crossbar, adding an element of excitement to the game.
K – R: Unveiling More Hockey Slang
Knuckle Puck: The Unpredictable Shot
A “knuckle puck” is a shot that knuckles and curls in the air, making it difficult for the goalie to anticipate its trajectory. It’s an unpredictable shot that adds an extra challenge for goaltenders, as the puck’s movement is less predictable compared to a traditional shot.
Kronwalled: A Bone-Crushing Hit
To be “Kronwalled” is to be on the receiving end of an impressive hit by a defenseman, named after the star defenseman Niklas Kronwall. Kronwall was known for his bone-crushing hits that often left opponents shaken. Being Kronwalled is a testament to the physicality and intensity of the game.
Lamplighter: A Prolific Goal Scorer
A “lamplighter” is a term used to describe a player who consistently scores goals. They have a knack for finding the back of the net and lighting up the scoreboard. Lamplighters are highly valued for their ability to generate offense and create scoring opportunities.
Laser Beam: A Straight-Shooting Rocket
A “laser beam” is a term used to describe a hard shot that travels on a straight line. It refers to the speed and accuracy of the shot, often leaving goalies with little time to react. Players with a laser beam shot possess a powerful and precise release that can beat even the most skilled goaltenders.
Laying Lumber: Defensive Stick Harassment
“Laying lumber” describes the act of using one’s stick to harass an opponent. It’s a defensive tactic used to disrupt the opposing player’s movement and prevent them from making plays. Laying lumber can involve subtle stick checks or more aggressive poke checks, depending on the situation.
Lettuce: A Player’s Stylish Hair
“Lettuce” is a term used to describe a player’s stylish and well-groomed head of hair. It’s often used to compliment a player’s appearance and is seen as a form of self-expression within the hockey community. Lettuce can vary in length and style, adding flair to a player’s overall look.
Lip Lettuce: A Player’s Mustache
“Lip lettuce” refers specifically to a player’s mustache. It’s another way for players to express their individuality and style. Lip lettuce can come in various shapes and sizes, ranging from a thin and neatly trimmed mustache to a more voluminous and prominent one.
Light the Lamp: Scoring a Goal
“Light the lamp” is a phrase used to describe the act of scoring a goal. It’s a vivid way of capturing the excitement and visual spectacle of the puck entering the net. When a player “lights the lamp,” it ignites a celebration among fans and teammates alike.
Lumber: The Player’s Stick
In hockey slang, a player’s stick is often referred to as “lumber.” It emphasizes the importance of the stick as an essential tool for shooting, passing, and defending. Each player has a unique preference for their lumber, including factors such as length, curve, and flex.
Mitts: A Player’s Gloves
“Mitts” is a term used to describe a player’s gloves. It refers to the protective gear worn on the hands to provide grip and cushioning. Mitts are essential for players, as they protect their hands from injuries while allowing them to maintain a firm grip on their stick.
Muffin: An Unremarkable Shot
A “muffin” is a term used to describe a shot that wavers back and forth in the air on its way to the net. It’s an unremarkable shot that lacks power, speed, or accuracy. Muffins are often easy saves for goaltenders, as they are relatively straightforward to track and stop.
Muzzy: A Player’s Mustache
“Muzzy” is a term used to describe a mustache. It’s another way of referring to a player’s facial hair, particularly when they sport a mustache as part of their appearance. Muzzies can vary in style, from thin and refined to thick and bushy.
ODR: The Outdoor Rink
“ODR” stands for “outdoor rink.” It’s a term used to describe playing hockey in an outdoor setting, typically on frozen lakes, ponds, or community rinks. ODR games have a unique charm and are often associated with a sense of nostalgia and the origins of the sport.
Office: The Goalie’s Territory
“The office” refers to the area behind the goal where the goalie will place the puck after making a save to switch possession. It’s an important aspect of the game, as it allows the goalie to control the flow of play and initiate offensive opportunities for their team.
Paint: The Crease in Front of the Goal
In hockey, “paint” refers to the crease in front of the goal. It’s called the paint because it’s often marked with a distinctive color to distinguish it from the rest of the ice surface. The crease is a critical area where players battle for position and where goaltenders have the most authority.
Peanut Butter: Scoring at the Top Shelf
To score “peanut butter” means to score a goal that lands in the top shelf of the net. It’s a term used to describe a shot that is perfectly placed in the upper portion of the net, often just under the crossbar. Peanut butter goals are a display of precision and skill.
Pigeon: An Opportunistic Scorer
A “pigeon” is an insult used to describe a player who can’t score on their own and relies on others to set them up for goals. Pigeons are often opportunistic scorers who benefit from being in the right place at the right time. While it may not be the most flattering term, it reflects the competitive nature of the game.
Pillows: The Goalie’s Knee Pads
“Pillows” refer to a goalie’s knee pads. They provide additional protection for the goalie’s knees and help absorb the impact of shots and collisions. Pillows are an essential part of a goalie’s equipment, ensuring their comfort and safety throughout the game.
Pipe: The Goal Post
In hockey, the term “pipe” refers to the goal post. It’s used to describe shots that hit the post but do not go into the net. Hitting the pipe is a frustrating experience for shooters, as it means they came close to scoring but were denied by the narrow margin of the goal post.
Pinch: Offensive Defenseman’s Move
A “pinch” is an action taken by a defenseman to move into the offensive zone and keep the puck inside the opponent’s zone. It’s a strategic move used to maintain offensive pressure and limit the opponent’s ability to transition the play. Pinching requires careful timing and coordination with teammates.
Pond: Playing on Frozen Lakes
“Pond” refers to playing hockey on frozen lakes or ponds. It’s a term that evokes a sense of outdoor play and freedom, reminiscent of the sport’s origins. Pond hockey games often have a more relaxed and informal atmosphere, allowing players to enjoy the game in a natural setting.
Plug: An Ineffective Player
To be called a “plug” is to be described as an ineffective player. It’s a term used to criticize someone’s performance on the ice, suggesting that they are not contributing positively to their team. Being labeled a plug is often a motivation for players to improve and prove their worth.
Plumber: The Gritty Worker
A “plumber” is a player who is known for doing all the dirty, gritty work to help their team win. They excel in areas such as shot blocking, penalty killing, and physical play. Plumbers often sacrifice personal glory for the success of the team, earning the respect of their coaches and teammates.
Pylon: A Slow Defender
A “pylon” is a term used to describe a slow and ineffective defenseman. It’s an insult aimed at players who struggle to keep up with the speed and skill of their opponents. Pylons are often targeted by opposing forwards as easy targets to exploit during the game.
Ripple the Mesh: Scoring a Goal
“Ripple the mesh” is another term used to describe scoring a goal. It refers to the visual effect created when the puck enters the net, causing the netting to ripple. Scoring goals is the ultimate objective of the game, and the phrase “ripple the mesh” captures the excitement and satisfaction of achieving that goal.
Roof: The Top Shelf
“The roof” refers to the top shelf of the goal. It’s the highest level of the net, just under the crossbar. Scoring “top shelf” is often considered the most challenging area for goaltenders to defend, as shots placed there are difficult to stop due to their speed and placement.
Rubber: The Puck
In hockey, the term “rubber” is used to refer to the puck. It’s a more informal way of describing the central object of the game. When players talk about the rubber, they are referring to the puck’s unique texture and its importance in gameplay.
S – Z: Exploring More Hockey Slang
Salad: A Player’s Well-Groomed Hair
“Salad” is a term used to describe a player’s short but well-groomed head of hair. It’s often used to compliment a player’s appearance and sense of style. Salad adds to a player’s overall presence on the ice and can become a recognizable aspect of their identity.
Shinny Hockey: Pickup Game on Frozen Lakes
“Shinny hockey” is a term used to describe a game of pickup hockey, typically played on frozen lakes or ponds. It’s often an informal and recreational setting where players come together to enjoy the sport in a relaxed atmosphere. Shinny hockey emphasizes the joy and camaraderie of the game.
Sieve: A Goalie Letting in Many Goals
A “sieve” is a term used to describe a goalie who lets in a lot of goals. It implies that the goalie is struggling to make saves and is allowing too many pucks to pass through. Being labeled a sieve is often a source of frustration for both the goalie and their team.
Sin-bin: The Penalty Box
The “sin-bin” refers to the penalty box, where players serve time for their infractions. It’s a term that emphasizes the consequences of breaking the rules and the temporary removal of a player from the game. The sin-bin is a place where players reflect on their actions and wait for their penalty to expire.
Slew-footing: A Dangerous Move
“Slew-footing” is a term used to describe a dangerous move where a player uses their leg or foot to knock or kick an opponent’s feet from under them. It’s a dangerous play that can cause injuries and is penalized in the game. Slew-footing is seen as a reckless and unfair tactic.
Snow Job: Spraying Snow at the Goalie
A “snow job” occurs when a player intentionally carves on the ice in front of the goalie, causing snow to spray onto them. It’s a playful way of distracting or annoying the goalie during the game. While it may not impact the outcome of the play, it adds a bit of gamesmanship to the game.
Spitting Chiclets: Losing Teeth in a Hit
“Spitting chiclets” is a phrase used when a player loses their teeth after being hit. It refers to the act of spitting out their teeth, which often happens due to the impact of a hard hit. While losing teeth may be an unfortunate consequence, it’s often seen as a symbol of toughness and resilience in the game.
Sweater: The Hockey Jersey
In hockey, the term “sweater” is used to describe the hockey jersey worn by players. It’s a nod to the traditional wool jerseys that were worn in the early days of the sport. The sweater is a symbol of team identity and pride, often adorned with a player’s number and team logo.
Tape-to-Tape: A Precise Pass
“Tape-to-tape” is a term used to describe an effective and precise pass from one teammate to another. It refers to the puck traveling directly from the tape of one player’s stick to the tape of another player’s stick. Tape-to-tape passes are highly valued for their accuracy and ability to maintain offensive momentum.
Tic-Tac-Toe: Quick Passing Sequence
“Tic-tac-toe” is a term used to describe a quick series of three passes that lead to a goal. It’s a play that demonstrates teamwork, communication, and skillful puck movement. Tic-tac-toe goals often leave goaltenders scrambling to keep up with the rapid passing sequence.
Top Shelf: Scoring High in the Net
“The top shelf” refers to the upper portion of the goal. Scoring “top shelf” means placing the puck in the highest part of the net, just under the crossbar. It’s a challenging area for goaltenders to defend, as shots placed there are difficult to stop due to their speed and placement.
Twig: A Player’s Stick
In hockey slang, a player’s stick is often referred to as a “twig.” It’s a term that highlights the stick’s slender and flexible nature. A player’s choice of twig can greatly impact their performance, as it affects their shooting, passing, and puck handling abilities.
Uncork: Shooting with Extreme Velocity
To “uncork” the puck means to shoot it with extreme velocity. It’s a term used to describe shots that are released with a tremendous amount of power and speed. Players who can uncork the puck possess a significant advantage, as their shots are more challenging for goaltenders to save.
Wheels: The Need for Speed
In hockey slang, “wheels” is used to describe a player’s speed and skating ability. It refers to their ability to move quickly and effortlessly on the ice. Players with exceptional wheels are often a threat to opponents, as their speed allows them to create scoring opportunities and impact the game.
Where Mama Keeps the Good Stuff: Scoring at the Top Shelf
“Where Mama Keeps the Good Stuff” is a playful phrase used to describe scoring a goal at the top shelf of the net. It’s a metaphorical way of referring to the upper portion of the goal, where goalies struggle to make saves. Scoring “where mama keeps the good stuff” is a cause for celebration.
Wraparound: Sneaking the Puck Behind the Goal
A “wraparound” occurs when a player attempts to skate behind the goal and quickly tucks the puck into the other side of the net. It’s a swift and deceptive move that catches the goalie off guard. Successful wraparound goals are often a result of a quick and unexpected play.
Yard Sale: Losing Equipment on the Ice
A “yard sale” refers to a player who loses their equipment on the ice, usually after a big hit or collision. It’s a humorous term that describes the scattered and disorganized appearance of a player’s equipment after a mishap. Yard sales often lead to a stoppage in play as the player retrieves their lost gear.
Yawning Cage: An Open Net
A “yawning cage” refers to a wide-open net that presents an excellent scoring opportunity. It’s a term used to describe a situation where the goalie is out of position or unable to cover the net, leaving a significant portion of the goal exposed. Scoring into a yawning cage is an ideal scenario for offensive players.
Zebra: The Referee
In hockey, the term “zebra” is used to refer to the referee. It’s a playful way of acknowledging the referee’s black and white striped jersey, which resembles the coloration of a zebra. Zebras play a critical role in enforcing the rules and ensuring fair play during the game.
Conclusion
Hockey slang adds a layer of excitement and camaraderie to the game. Understanding the language of hockey allows fans to connect more deeply with the sport and appreciate the nuances of play. From “apples” to “zebras,” this guide has provided an extensive overview of the popular slang and lingo used in hockey. So, whether you’re watching a game or joining a conversation with fellow fans, you’ll be well-equipped to speak the language of the game. Lace up your skates and embrace the rich world of hockey slang!
