Billiards & Pool Terms
1 / 15Rack 'em up and test your knowledge of billiards vocabulary!
15 quick questionsNo sign-upFree to playTap an answer below to begin ↓
In pool, what is a 'scratch'?
About Billiards & Pool Terms
Rack 'em up and test your knowledge of billiards vocabulary! Billiards & Pool Terms packs 15 multiple-choice questions with a mix of 7 easy, 7 medium, 1 hard questions into a relaxed session of roughly 7 minutes — no sign-up, no timer pressure. An explanation appears after every answer, and finishing once a day keeps your streak alive.
A few sample questions
1. In pool, what is a 'scratch'?
Answer: Pocketing the cue ball, resulting in a foul
A scratch occurs when the cue ball is pocketed or driven off the table, resulting in a foul. The incoming player typically gets ball in hand (placement anywhere on the table).
2. What does 'English' (or 'side spin') mean in billiards?
Answer: Spin applied to the cue ball by striking it off-center
English refers to sidespin applied to the cue ball by striking it to the left or right of center, causing it to curve or change direction after hitting a rail or object ball.
3. In pool, what is a 'masse' shot?
Answer: An extreme curve shot achieved by striking the cue ball with a nearly vertical cue
A massé shot is an advanced technique where the cue is held at a steep angle (nearly vertical) and the cue ball is struck with extreme spin, causing it to curve dramatically.
4. What is the 'break' in pool?
Answer: The opening shot that scatters the racked balls
The break is the opening shot of a game of pool where a player strikes the racked balls with the cue ball, scattering them across the table to begin play.
5. In eight-ball pool, what are 'solids' and 'stripes'?
Answer: The two groups of numbered balls: 1-7 (solid colored) and 9-15 (striped)
In eight-ball, the 15 object balls are divided into solids (balls 1-7, solid colored) and stripes (balls 9-15, with a colored stripe). Each player must pocket their assigned group before the 8-ball.
Things you'll learn along the way
- A bank shot is when a player intentionally hits an object ball into one or more cushions (rails) so that it rebounds into a pocket.
- Position play is the skill of controlling where the cue ball comes to rest after each shot, setting up the next shot in a planned sequence to run the table.
- Safety play is a defensive tactic where a player intentionally positions the cue ball so the opponent faces a difficult or impossible next shot, rather than attempting a risky offensive shot.
Frequently asked questions
Is Billiards & Pool Terms free to play?
Yes. The entire SeniorBrainGames catalog — including Billiards & Pool Terms — is free, with no sign-up required, no time limits, and no ads on top of the game. It also works offline once the page has loaded once.
How long does Billiards & Pool Terms take?
Most players finish Billiards & Pool Terms in about 7 minutes. You can pause between questions, replay it as often as you like, and there is no penalty for taking your time — answers are explained after you submit them.
What's a good follow-up after Billiards & Pool Terms?
If you enjoyed this word games quiz, try the Daily Challenge — five rotating questions, refreshed every 24 hours, that count toward your streak. You can also use the Surprise Me button on the homepage to land on a different game type for variety.
Can I print Billiards & Pool Terms?
Yes — use the Print button at the top of the page for a clean question sheet, or "Print with Answers" to make an answer key. Printed sheets work well for group play at home, in a classroom, or at a senior center.
Explore related topics
More Word Games
Architecture Terms
Test your knowledge of architectural styles, elements, and vocabulary
Automotive Mechanic Terms
Rev up your knowledge with this quiz about the vocabulary used by auto mechanics and technicians.
Aviation Terms
Flight, aircraft, and aviation vocabulary
Baking & Pastry Terms
Test your knowledge of baking and pastry vocabulary from the world of breads, cakes, and confections
Barbecue & Grilling Terms
Master the vocabulary of barbecue and grilling, from smoking techniques to regional styles
Try Memory Games
Baking Terms Quiz
Do you know your baking vocabulary? From 'proof' to 'fold,' test your knowledge!
Try Memory Games
Biology Terms Recall
How well do you remember key biology terms and concepts? Test your recall of the science of life!
Free printables
Word Search Puzzles
Large-print word search sheets to print at home — answer keys included.