shuffleboard
UK[ˈʃʌf(ə)lbɔːd]US[ˈʃʌf(ə)lbɔːrd]
n
a game in which players use long-handled cues to push weighted discs along a smooth court toward a scoring area.
n
the long, narrow court on which this game is played.
Morpheme Breakdown
shuffle
board
shuffle
board
Etymology
the word 'shuffleboard' is a transparent compound formed from two english words, 'shuffle' and 'board,' which directly describe the game's action and equipment. the term first appeared in the 16th century, originally referring to a similar game called 'shove-groat' or 'shovel-board,' where coins were shoved along a table. the verb 'shuffle,' with its sense of moving something along a surface without lifting it, perfectly captures the pushing motion of the discs. the 'board' element evolved from specific tables and tavern counters to the dedicated, marked courts of the modern game, solidifying the name for this pastime of sliding weights to a target.
Analysis
Structure: shuffle + board
- shuffle (verb): of uncertain origin, possibly from Low German schuffeln meaning "to walk clumsily, deal dishonestly." In this compound, it denotes the pushing or sliding motion.
- board (noun): from old english bord meaning "a plank, flat surface." in this compound, it refers to the long, smooth playing surface.
Examples
they spent the afternoon playing shuffleboard on the cruise ship deck.
the retirement community has a newly resurfaced shuffleboard.
he took a moment to carefully aim before his shuffleboard shot.