Wire - Billiard Term Definition

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Definition of Wire

Wire is a billiards slang term that is a part of Scoring Terminology.

Sometimes referred to as "across the string" because of the markers on a string that are used to keep score of the games won by each player. This would literally be a wire or piece of string with beads threaded on it like an abacus. The wire is used to keep score by literally sliding the beads along the string or wire. In addition to being used to track the number billiard games won, the wire can also be used to keep a running score for a single game. Some tables have built-in counters, and sometimes players will place a coin under the edge of the table cushion (with each of the diamonds representing a game won). Both of these methods can be referred to as keeping track on the wire. If the match or set were a race, then each billiard player would have a separate score. However, if the billiard players are gambling "per game," or in a race to a certain number of games "ahead," then only one score is normally kept, with the player who is behind in games removing a bead (or by backing up the scoring coin) when they win, and the billiard player ahead in games adding a bead (or by advancing the coin) when they win. It is also used to measure and track a player's handicap in a match. As in, "James got two games on the wire in a race to nine". A form of handicapping where the player getting games "on the wire" has to win fewer billiard games than his or her opponent. In the example cited, James only needs to win seven games, while his opponent must win nine billiard games. The wire also refers to the grapevine in the billiard world; that is, the propagation of what action is taking place where.

See: on the wire, across the string, games on the wire for more on the meaning of "Wire".

Wire - Usage

Thats another game win for Gary. Move another one across the wire. Did you hear about who bribed the referee at the world billiard championships? Yeah, it has been all over the wire.

Billiards - Wire

• Cue Sport Scoring Terminology Glossary
• Billiard Terms Glossary

• Title: Wire
• Author: billiardsforum (Billiards Forum)
• Published: 4/13/2006
• Last Updated: 10/24/2007 9:50:16 AM
• Last Updated By: billiardsforum

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