Golf Glossary
Definition: Handicap
Here is the definition for 'Handicap'. To show a different definition, select a term from the dropdown text box. The online golf glossary will display a definition, plus links to related information.
Select term:
Handicap
A golf handicap is a number that reflects a golfer's playing ability.
The higher the number, the lower the golfer's ability.
With a handicapping system, players are allowed to deduct strokes
from their scores, based on their course handicap. A weaker player is allowed to
deduct more strokes on certain holes than a stronger player. This allows both players to have a realistic chance to win, even if one player is better than the other.
There are actually two types of golf handicap.
- Handicap Index. The
handicap index
is a general
measure of the player's skill. It is computed based
on his/her recent history of rounds.
- Course Handicap. A
course handicap
is a measure
of the player's potential on a particular course. It is
an adjustment to the handicap index, based on the
difficulty of the particular course.
When golfers talk about their golf handicap, it is usually
clear from the context whether they are talking about a
handicap index or a course handicap.