tennis etymology

Etymology

The word "tennis" is derived from the French word "tenez," which means "hold" or "receive." This is likely a reference to the call that the server made before serving the ball.

Meaning

Tennis is a racket sport played between two or four players on a court divided by a net. The goal of the game is to hit the ball over the net and onto the opponent's side of the court, in such a way that the opponent cannot return it.

Origin

The origins of tennis are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have developed from a French game called "jeu de paume" (literally "palm game") in the 12th century. Jeu de paume was played indoors on a court with walls, and the players used their hands to hit a ball over a net.

Over time, the game evolved and spread to other parts of Europe. In England, it became known as "tennis" and was played outdoors on a court with no walls. The game continued to evolve, and by the 19th century, it had become a popular sport for both men and women.

Today, tennis is one of the most popular sports in the world, and it is played by people of all ages and abilities.

tennis relate terms

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  • advantage

    Etymology Old French avantage Latin advantagium an advantage Vulgar Latin advent