linksman: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1-C2 (Very Low Frequency)Specialised, technical, literary, journalistic
Quick answer
What does “linksman” mean?
A golfer, especially one who plays on a links course.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A golfer, especially one who plays on a links course.
In contemporary usage, a skilled golfer, often with a connotation of being adept at the traditional form of the game played on seaside links terrain. The term is increasingly used figuratively to denote someone who demonstrates skill, precision, and strategic thinking in any complex field.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term originates and is predominantly used in British/Irish English due to the geography of links courses. In American English, 'golfer' is almost always preferred, with 'linksman' being a highly literary or affectation.
Connotations
UK: Tradition, skill, mastery of a classic style. US: Esoteric, deliberately British-sounding, possibly pretentious.
Frequency
Extremely rare in US English outside of specialized golf journalism or historical writing. Uncommon but recognisable in UK English within golfing circles.
Grammar
How to Use “linksman” in a Sentence
[adjective] linksmanlinksman of [noun (skill/renown)]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “linksman” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [Not applicable as a verb]
American English
- [Not applicable as a verb]
adverb
British English
- [Not applicable as an adverb]
American English
- [Not applicable as an adverb]
adjective
British English
- [Not applicable as an adjective]
American English
- [Not applicable as an adjective]
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Possible in historical or sports sociology texts discussing golf.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Used in specialized golf journalism, commentary, and historical accounts of the sport.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “linksman”
- Using it as a general synonym for 'golfer' in casual contexts.
- Misspelling as 'links man' (should be one word).
- Mispronouncing the 'ks' cluster (/ˈlɪŋzmən/ is incorrect).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a very low-frequency, specialised term used almost exclusively in golf contexts, particularly those related to traditional links courses.
Traditionally, no. The '-man' suffix is gender-specific. The equivalent term for a female golfer on a links course would be 'linkswoman', though this is even rarer. In modern inclusive language, 'golfer' or 'player' is preferred.
All linksmen are golfers, but not all golfers are linksmen. A 'linksman' specifically implies expertise in playing on links courses, which are a specific, challenging type of seaside golf terrain.
Only if the topic is specifically about golf, and you wish to use a precise, traditional term. In most other formal writing, it would be considered obscure or overly niche.
A golfer, especially one who plays on a links course.
Linksman: in British English it is pronounced /ˈlɪŋksmən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈlɪŋksmən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No specific idioms for this word]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a skilled GOLFER playing on the coastal LINKS, a true MAN of the course = LINKSMAN.
Conceptual Metaphor
GOLF IS A BATTLE/WALK THROUGH NATURE; THE GOLFER IS A CRAFTSMAN/WARRIOR.
Practice
Quiz
In which context would the word 'linksman' be most appropriately used?