Sports Imposter Game Words — 16 Words with Meanings

Playing an imposter-style word game with a sports theme? Here are 16 playable sports words — each with a plain-language meaning, so every player (including kids and non-native speakers) can join in.

▶ Play Find the Faker free — it deals these words for you

WordMeaning
BasketballA team game of dribbling and shooting a ball through a high hoop.
TennisTwo players hit a ball back and forth over a net with rackets.
SurfingRiding ocean waves while standing on a board.
BoxingTwo fighters wearing gloves trade punches in a ring.
CyclingRiding a two-wheeled pedal machine, sometimes in long races.
SkiingSliding down snowy slopes on two long boards.
BowlingRolling a heavy ball down a lane to knock over ten pins.
ArcheryShooting arrows at a round target with a bow.
VolleyballTeams punch a ball over a high net with their hands.
GolfHitting a small white ball into distant holes with clubs.
SkateboardingRiding and doing tricks on a small board with four wheels.
SwimmingRacing through water using strokes — an Olympic classic.
CricketA bat-and-ball game with wickets, huge in India and England.
RugbyA rough team game where an oval ball is carried and players are tackled.
BadmintonPlayers hit a feathered shuttle over a net with light rackets.
MarathonA very long running race — just over 42 kilometers.

How to use this list

Show one word to everyone except the faker. Each player gives a one-word clue in turn; after a few rounds, vote on who's bluffing. Full rules: how to play. Browse other themes on the complete word list.