# Nassau

/ˈnæsɔ/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nassau
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a type of bet in golf that is actually three separate bets in one. You bet on who wins the first nine holes, the second nine holes, and the full eighteen holes.

For teachers: a three-part wager in golf covering the front nine, back nine, and the overall eighteen-hole round. Often involves 'pressing' or doubling the bet when a player falls behind.

## Examples

- We played a five-dollar Nassau during our round today.
- Since he won both the back nine and the overall match, he took two-thirds of the Nassau pot.
- The Nassau remains the most popular betting format in amateur golf because it keeps players engaged in the match even if they perform poorly during the opening holes.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used with the indefinite article ('a Nassau') or as a modifier ('Nassau bet').

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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.