I can't help myself but to publish this annually; particularly coming from someone (me) who worked as a Grade 2 Greenkeeper on the Old Course at St. Andrews. I often hear golfers refer to the Greens Committee or Greens fee. This is wrong. In this case, golfers are only referring to 18 specific greens. Think of the golf term, 'through the green.' Wouldn't it sound silly to say, 'through the greens?'
A good deal of confusion surrounds the use of the word green in golf terminology. Should one use “green fee” or “greens fee?” Is it “greenkeeper” or “greenskeeper?” Exactly what area does the word “green” pertain to on a golf course? And is it the “USGA Green Section” or the “USGA Greens Section?”Green is a noun and has two proper golf meanings. The first meaning is chiefly of Scottish origin. It simply defines all territory of a golf course, or all areas outside the confines of the clubhouse. Thus, it can be used in relation to all outdoor areas of a golf course. The second meaning, most readily known to modern audiences, means the area of short grass surrounding a hole referred to as the “putting green.” In keeping with the first meaning, a greenkeeper is someone whose responsibilities entail maintaining all areas of the golf course outside the clubhouse. The term was changed to golf course superintendent in the United States several decades ago.
In most cases of using the word green in golf terminology, the use should be singular. Green fee, greenkeeper, green committee, and USGA Green Section are all correct uses.
One final word on this subject. Green, in proper golf terminology, does NOT refer to any particular color found on a golf course. It only applies to areas or regions of a golf course.
