Master the Language of the Boards
Whether you're new to cornhole or looking to elevate your competitive edge, learning the right terminology can give you a serious advantage. From airmails and cuts to bunch shots and push bags, this glossary breaks down the most important terms used by pros and backyard legends alike. Talk like a player - and throw like one too.
Cornhole isn't just a backyard pastime - it's a fast-growing competitive sport with its own strategy, lingo, and community. Whether you're aiming for ACL Pro status or leveling up on league night, understanding the language helps you play smarter and stay one step ahead.
This terminology guide explains popular bag shots, tactical plays, and board slang so players of all levels can upgrade their game and speak with confidence on and off the boards.
Airmail
A clean, high-arc shot that drops directly into the hole without touching the board - like a basketball swish.
Airmail Drag
An advanced airmail that also drags a second bag sitting near the hole into the hole with it. If both fall, it's called a 2-Bag Airmail Drag - a signature shot among top players.
AND1
An aggressive airmail that knocks your opponent’s bag off the back while yours drops in - gain 3, deny 3.
Bar of Soap
A powerful push shot that slides your opponent’s bag off the hole’s edge or the board completely - like soap slipping away.
Block
A defensive throw that lands in the center of the board, making it harder for your opponent to slide into the hole.
Bully Bag
A forceful toss that pushes your opponent’s bag out of scoring position and takes control of the board space.
Bunch
Three or more bags pile up around the hole, blocking further access and complicating the round.
Collect (or Grab)
A controlled push or slide that pulls a nearby off-center bag into the hole. Often used to save a borderline shot - especially effective with RZ3.PRO™-filled bags.
Cut Shot
Thrown with an angled grip to veer sharply across the board. Used to maneuver around blockers or create precision entries.
Dirty Bag
A tactical shot that lands on the board while simultaneously knocking your opponent’s bag off.
Fade Shot
The opposite of a cut shot - this one spins and slides in the reverse direction, often left to right for right-handed players.
Flop
A soft shot where your bag tumbles over another, potentially resting on top or rolling into position.
Get-Around (or Sneak-Around)
A curved slide shot that bypasses a blocker to reach the hole with precision.
In the Hole (aka Cornhole)
A bag that goes straight into the hole for 3 points. Clean and ideal.
On the Board
A bag that lands and remains on the board surface. Worth 1 point.
Penguin
A finesse shot where your thrown bag scoops your own previously thrown bag over your opponent’s and into the hole - leaving theirs behind.
Pinch
Another term for a Bunch - a tight cluster of bags that blocks access to the hole.
Push Shot
Designed to move a previously thrown bag into the hole by trailing closely behind it. Often used in critical rounds.
Replacement Bag
A push shot that sends your existing bag into the hole while the new one takes its place.
Reverse Cut
Another name for a Fade Shot, based on spin direction.
Rodeo
Your bag rides another into the hole by landing directly on top. Flashy and effective.
Roll Shot
A deliberate flop with forward tumble instead of slide. Works best with hybrid carpet bags like the Podium.
Skunk
A shutout victory - 21-0. Total domination.
Slide Shot
The classic move - land your bag on the front of the board and let it glide smoothly toward the hole.
Split
Thrown directly between two bags blocking the hole - requires precision and nerve.
V-Block
A blocker bag that rotates to land with one corner pointed forward, creating a “V” obstacle that's tough to move or navigate.
Upgrade Your Game with Pro-Level Gear
Now that you know the lingo, throw like a pro. RazorCornhole offers tournament-grade gear built for speed, consistency, and confidence.
- ACL Pro Razor Bags – Fast, responsive, and powered by RZ3.PRO™ Resin
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- Razor Cornhole Boards – Premium materials, perfect slide
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Whether you're chasing podium finishes or just taking backyard bragging rights, this guide helps you play sharper, throw cleaner, and talk like a true competitor.
