A complete list of badminton terms would be almost impossible to compress onto a single webpage, but here are some of the most important ones:
Smash – A strong overheard shot that causes the shuttle to spike downwards as soon as it hits the racquet. The smash is badminton’s primary offensive stroke.
Alley – The extension of the playing court on both sides by one and a half feet on both sides for doubles play.
Service or serve – This is the initial stroke used to put the shuttle into play. Also defined as the start of a rally.
Back alley – The area between the service line and boundary line for doubles.
Rally – The exchange of strokes while the shuttlecock is in play.
Backcourt – The area along the boundary lines.
Fault – Refers to a violation of the rules, either in receiving, serving, or during play.
Balk – The deceptive move used to throw the opponent off guard during the service. Sometimes also called a “feint”.
Drop – An advanced level stroke, a drop causes the shuttle to soar upwards before dropping at a rapid pace near the net.
Carry – Also known as a throw or sling, this is an illegal tactic in which the shuttle is skillfully caught with the racquet and then slung as if executing a normal stroke.
Drive – A quick and low shot where the shuttle makes a horizontal flight just above the height of the net. Considered by many as a purely offensive stroke.
Knowing badminton terms can go a long way. By no means will it make you a better player right away, but knowing the terms will help you understand badminton at a deeper, more personal level, and eventually get you in tune with the mechanics to the point where it improves your game.