Shots and Strokes
These terms describe what you do to the ball.
- Break — the opening shot of a game, striking the racked balls to scatter them.
- Draw — backspin applied by striking below center, pulling the cue ball back after contact.
- Follow — topspin applied by striking above center, rolling the cue ball forward after contact.
- Stun — a center-ball hit that makes the cue ball stop or slide at contact.
- English — side spin applied by striking left or right of center, used mainly to change cushion angles.
- Masse — an extreme curve shot made by striking down on the cue ball with an elevated cue.
- Miscue — a mishit where the tip slides off the cue ball, usually from too little chalk or striking too far off center.
Position and Strategy
These terms describe the thinking game.
- Position (or shape) — leaving the cue ball where you want it for the next shot.
- Safety — a defensive shot that leaves the opponent without a good shot.
- Snooker — to leave the opponent unable to hit the required ball directly (also the name of a distinct cue game).
- Tangent line — the ninety-degree path the cue ball naturally follows after striking an object ball.
- Run out — to pocket all remaining required balls in a single unbroken turn.
- Push out — in 9-ball, an optional shot after the break that need not contact the lowest ball.
The Table and Equipment
These terms describe the gear and the playing surface.
- Cloth (felt) — the woven wool covering stretched over the table's slate bed.
- Cushion (rail) — the rubber-backed edges that rebound the balls.
- Ferrule — the small collar between the shaft and the tip that protects the wood.
- Bridge — the hand position that guides the shaft, or a mechanical rest for long shots.
- Rack — the triangle or diamond frame used to set the balls, or the group of balls itself.
- Object ball — any numbered ball you intend to strike or pocket, as opposed to the cue ball.
Games and Scoring
These terms describe formats and outcomes.
- Rack (as a unit) — one complete game, especially in 8-ball or 9-ball.
- Inning — a player's turn at the table.
- High run — the most balls pocketed consecutively, a key measure in straight pool.
- Call shot — a format requiring the shooter to nominate the ball and pocket in advance.
- Scratch — a foul in which the cue ball is pocketed or driven off the table.
New terms make more sense once you see them in action. Pair this glossary with our guides to 9-ball, straight pool, and position play, and the vocabulary will quickly become second nature.