# hurling

/ˈhɝɫɪŋ/ (US) · /hˈɜːlɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hurling
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a fast and exciting team sport from Ireland played with a wooden stick and a small ball. It is one of the oldest and quickest field games in the world.

For teachers: an outdoor team game of ancient Gaelic origin, played with a wooden stick called a hurley and a small ball called a sliotar. It is characterized by high speed and physical contact, with points scored by hitting the ball through or over the opponent's goalposts.

## Examples

- Hurling is a very popular sport in Ireland.
- Thousands of fans gathered at the stadium to watch the national hurling final this weekend.
- Often described as the fastest game on grass, hurling requires exceptional hand-eye coordination and physical courage, as players strike the ball at speeds exceeding one hundred miles per hour.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an uncountable noun when referring to the sport itself.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.