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

But unlike other players who might have a kink in their swing or yips on the putting green, Korda hadn’t lost the mechanics that make her the envy of men’s and women’s players alike.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

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

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

From BBC • Aug. 28, 2025

“I’ve had the yips on four different occasions. It seems like every seven years for some reason, just not lately, thank goodness.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2025

Agonized yips broke out from the other side.

From "The House of the Scorpion" by Nancy Farmer