bunker

golf

Also known as: sand trap

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

In golf, a bunker is an artificial hazard on the course, typically a depression filled with sand, also known as a sand trap. When a player's ball lands in a bunker, they are considered to be "bunkered". These hazards are strategically placed along the preferred line to the hole and guard the putting green.123

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

4 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

golf
Procedure
…putting green are obstacles called bunkers, depressions filled with sand (sand traps). Some holes require the player to cross streams or ponds. Both bunkers and bodies of water are termed hazards.
Read More
…putting green are obstacles called bunkers, depressions filled with sand (sand traps). Some holes require the player to cross streams or ponds. Both bunkers and bodies of water are termed hazards.
Read More