Birdie vs. Shuttlecock — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 21, 2024
Birdie and shuttlecock are terms used interchangeably in badminton, referring to the projectile used, although "shuttlecock" is the formal term, while "birdie" is colloquial.
Difference Between Birdie and Shuttlecock
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A shuttlecock, formally known as such in the rules of badminton, is crafted primarily from feathers fixed into a cork base. On the other hand, the term "birdie" is an informal nickname that emphasizes its light, fluttering movement similar to a bird in flight.
Shuttlecocks are designed to be aerodynamically stable, ensuring they fly predictably during play, whereas birdies, as they are affectionately called, highlight the playful aspect of the game.
While shuttlecocks are used in professional and serious amateur matches, the term "birdie" is commonly heard in casual play and among beginners.
In terms of materials, a shuttlecock can also be made of synthetic materials for durability, while the term birdie does not differentiate based on construction.
Both terms describe the same object, but their usage reflects the context of the conversation—formal or casual.
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Comparison Chart
Terminology
Informal, colloquial term
Official term used in rules
Usage
Casual and recreational play
Professional and serious play
Construction
Same as shuttlecock
Feathers and cork or synthetic
Aerodynamics
Implies light and fluttering motion
Designed for stability and control
Context of Usage
Informal and beginner-friendly settings
Formal and competitive settings
Compare with Definitions
Birdie
Informal term for a shuttlecock used in badminton.
She lobbed the birdie over to her opponent.
Shuttlecock
Official equipment in badminton matches.
The player inspected the shuttlecock before serving.
Birdie
Can refer to any type of shuttlecock.
Grab a birdie from the bag and let’s start.
Shuttlecock
Used in both singles and doubles play.
They practiced hitting the shuttlecock back and forth.
Birdie
Associated with recreational badminton.
They bought some birdies for the family picnic.
Shuttlecock
A high-drag projectile used in badminton, made of feathers or synthetic materials.
He hit the shuttlecock sharply across the net.
Birdie
Often used in casual play among beginners.
The kids chased the birdie around the backyard.
Shuttlecock
Designed for aerodynamic stability.
The shuttlecock’s design ensures it flies true.
Birdie
Emphasizes the playful aspect of badminton.
Laughing, he swatted the birdie out of bounds.
Shuttlecock
Typically has 16 feathers fixed into its cork base.
The shuttlecock was checked for any damaged feathers.
Birdie
(Informal) A small bird.
Shuttlecock
A shuttlecock (also called a bird or birdie) is a high-drag projectile used in the sport of badminton. It has an open conical shape formed by feathers or plastic (or a synthetic alternative) embedded into a rounded cork (or rubber) base.
Birdie
One stroke under par for a hole in golf.
Shuttlecock
A cork to which feathers are attached to form a cone shape, or a similar object of plastic, struck with rackets in the games of badminton and battledore.
Birdie
See shuttlecock.
Shuttlecock
The object hit back and forth over the net in badminton, consisting of a conical array of feathers or a conical plastic mesh attached to a small rounded end of cork or rubber.Also called bird, birdie.
Birdie
To shoot (a hole in golf) in one stroke under par.
Shuttlecock
To throw or send back and forth like a shuttlecock.
Birdie
(diminutive) A (little) bird; a birdling; a child's term for a bird.
Aw, that's a cute little birdie. Is it a budgie?
Shuttlecock
(countable) A lightweight object that is conical in shape with a cork or rubber-covered nose, used in badminton the way a ball is used in other racquet games. from early 16th c.
Birdie
(golf) The completion of a hole one stroke below par.
He scored ten birdies during the tournament.
Shuttlecock
The game of badminton.
Birdie
(badminton) A shuttlecock.
Shuttlecock
To move rapidly back and forth.
Birdie
A man's penis.
Shuttlecock
To send or toss back and forth; to bandy.
To shuttlecock words
Birdie
(electronics) An electromagnetic signal generated from within an electronic device.
Shuttlecock
A cork stuck with feathers, which is to be struck by a battledoor in play; also, the play itself.
Birdie
(usually preceded by "the") A certain rude gesture in some countries, formed with the middle finger.
Shuttlecock
To send or toss to and fro; to bandy; as, to shuttlecock words.
Birdie
(usually preceded by "the") A certain rude gesture in some countries, formed with the middle and index fingers.
Shuttlecock
Badminton equipment consisting of a ball of cork or rubber with a crown of feathers
Birdie
To score a birdie.
Sörenstam birdied to take the lead.
Shuttlecock
Send or toss to and fro, like a shuttlecock
Birdie
To score a birdie at (a hole).
Sörenstam birdied the seventeenth hole to take the lead.
Birdie
A pretty or dear little bird; - a pet name.
Birdie
(golf) a score of one stroke under par on a hole
Birdie
Badminton equipment consisting of a ball of cork or rubber with a crown of feathers
Birdie
To shoot in one stroke under par
Common Curiosities
What is a shuttlecock?
A shuttlecock is the official projectile used in badminton, consisting of feathers or synthetic material and a cork base.
Are synthetic birdies suitable for all types of play?
Yes, synthetic birdies are durable and suitable for recreational play, but might not be preferred in professional settings.
Do birdies and shuttlecocks come in different weights?
Yes, but they generally conform to badminton regulations for weight and size to ensure fair play.
Why might beginners prefer the term birdie over shuttlecock?
"Birdie" is simpler and more whimsical, making it more approachable for beginners.
Why is a shuttlecock called a birdie?
It's nicknamed a birdie because its feathers make it resemble a small bird, especially when it flies.
Can I use any type of shuttlecock for professional play?
No, professional play usually requires feathered shuttlecocks that meet specific regulatory standards.
How long does a typical shuttlecock last?
Depending on usage and material, a shuttlecock can last from one game to several matches.
Are birdies used in Olympic badminton?
Yes, but they are referred to as shuttlecocks in official Olympic terminology.
Is there a difference in flight between a birdie and a shuttlecock?
No, both terms refer to the same object, so there is no difference in their flight properties.
How do I choose the right shuttlecock for training?
For training, consider durability and flight consistency, which synthetic shuttlecocks often provide.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
