Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
yips
noun
/jɪps/
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Definition
A sudden and unexplained loss of skill in athletes, commonly seen in sports like golf or darts.
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Examples
- The golfer experienced the yips during the tournament, affecting his performance.
- When the pitcher suddenly couldn’t throw strikes, his teammates worried he had the yips.
- Many players have struggled with the yips, often leading to early retirements.
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Meaning
The term describes the phenomenon where an athlete loses their ability to perform a skill that they previously executed well, often due to anxiety or overthinking.
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Synonyms
- jitters
- anxiety
- loss of form