cornhole
Medium (US), Low (UK)Informal (game); Vulgar (slang)
Definition
Meaning
A lawn game where players throw bags filled with corn kernels at a raised platform with a hole.
To play the game of cornhole; vulgar slang for anal intercourse (US only, informal/vulgar).
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The game meaning is dominant in the US and becoming internationally known. The vulgar meaning exists primarily in US slang and is considered offensive.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the US, 'cornhole' primarily refers to the popular lawn game, with a secondary, well-known vulgar slang meaning. In the UK, the word is virtually unknown; the game is often called 'bean bag toss' or similar.
Connotations
US: Neutral-to-positive for the game, strongly negative/vulgar for the slang. UK: The word has little to no recognition; if understood, it would likely be via exposure to US media.
Frequency
High frequency in the US for the game, especially in social/event contexts. Very low to zero frequency in general UK English.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
Let's [play] cornhole.They [set up] the cornhole boards.He [threw] the bag into the cornhole.Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “'Go for the cornhole' (aim for the high-scoring hole)”
- “'Cornhole ace' (bag goes directly into the hole without touching the board)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare, except for manufacturers/sellers of game equipment or event planners.
Academic
Extremely rare; not an academic term.
Everyday
Common in US informal social contexts (BBQs, tailgates).
Technical
Refers to the specific game rules and equipment specifications.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- We might try to cornhole later, if the rain holds off.
American English
- We're going to cornhole all afternoon at the cookout.
adjective
British English
- He's a keen cornhole enthusiast.
American English
- She bought a new cornhole set for the patio.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- We play cornhole in the garden.
- At the party, they had a cornhole tournament with prizes.
- The professionalisation of cornhole, with televised tournaments and sponsorships, has elevated it from a simple backyard pastime.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a bag of CORN aiming for a HOLE in a board.
Conceptual Metaphor
TARGET/GOAL (the hole as an achievement).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not translate literally as 'кукурузная дыра'. For the game, use descriptive translation like 'игра в мешочки'. Be aware of the vulgar US slang meaning.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'cornhole' in formal UK contexts where it is unknown.
- Unintentionally using the vulgar meaning in mixed/international company.
Practice
Quiz
In which country is 'cornhole' primarily recognised as a popular lawn game?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While similar bag-toss games exist worldwide, 'cornhole' as a named game is distinctly American in origin and popularity.
It is not recommended. The word is culturally specific to the US and carries a vulgar slang meaning there. Use a more generic term like 'bean bag toss'.
Traditionally, the bags are filled with dried corn kernels, hence the name. Modern versions may use plastic pellets.
Its origins as vulgar slang are obscure but predate the game's popularity. The slang is considered crude and offensive.