yips

American  

[yips] / yɪps /

plural noun

Sports.

1. the sudden and unexplained loss of a motor skill used in a sport, as with a smooth golf swing reduced to a stuttering one, experienced by athletes who had previously mastered the required movements.

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yips British  

/ jɪps /

plural noun

1. informal (in sport, originally esp golf) nervous twitching or tension that destroys concentration and spoils performance

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Etymology

Origin of yips

First recorded in 1960–65; origin obscure

Example Sentences

Muchova began with more intent in set two, holding then taking advantage as Gauff's serving yips returned to ease 2-0 ahead.

From Barron's • Jan. 25, 2026

The yips got so bad that she would occasionally miss putts by 20 feet on purpose because she knew she had no chance if she left them too close to the hole.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 29, 2025

Grip specialist Matt Daly paid the price as in came biomechanics expert Gavin MacMillan, who helped rival Aryna Sabalenka overcome her serving yips.

From BBC • Sep. 1, 2025

Missy, her mini poodle, marks their arrival with a chorus of barks, but her yips are soon drowned out by the cacophony of children.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 1, 2024

“Here we are,” she said, although the children were already on their feet and letting out excited yips and barks.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood