Introduction to the 3 Original Names of Table Tennis
Table tennis, also known as ping-pong, is an exciting and popular sport that has become a household name. But what many people don’t know is that the game has gone by three different names since it was first invented in the late 19th century. These names are ‘gossima’, ‘whiff-whaff’, and ‘ping-pong’.
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What is the Origin of Table Tennis?
Table tennis was originally called ‘Gossima’ and was invented in England by James W. Gibb in 1874. The game was quickly popularized in the United States and Europe, and the name of the game was changed to ‘Whiff-Whaff’. This name was used until the early 1900s when the game’s name was changed to ‘Ping-Pong’.
What is the Meaning of Each Name?
- Gossima: The name “Gossima” was derived from the French word “gosse” which means “child”, indicating that the game was meant for children.
- Whiff-Whaff: The name “Whiff-Whaff” was derived from the sound made when the ball was hit back and forth between the two players.
- Ping-Pong: The name “Ping-Pong” was derived from the sound made when the ball was hit back and forth between the two players.
How Did the Name Change?
The name “Gossima” was changed to “Whiff-Whaff” due to the invention of the celluloid ball which made a louder sound than the original wooden ball. The name “Whiff-Whaff” was then changed to “Ping-Pong” when John Jaques and Son Ltd. trademarked the name in 1901.
Who Popularized Table Tennis?
Table tennis was popularized in the United States and Europe by members of the British upper class. They would often play the game during social gatherings in the late 19th century. The game’s popularity in the United States and Europe was due to the fact that it was an inexpensive game to play and could be played indoors.
What is the Difference Between Table Tennis and Ping-Pong?
Although the terms “Table Tennis” and “Ping-Pong” are often used interchangeably, they are slightly different. Table Tennis is the official name of the sport and is considered a more serious game than Ping-Pong, which is often seen as a recreational activity.
What are the Rules of Table Tennis?
Table Tennis is a game played between two players or two pairs of players. The game is played on a hard table, which is divided into two halves by a net. The players use small paddles to hit a light, hollow ball back and forth over the net. The object of the game is for each player to hit the ball so that it touches the opponent’s side of the table before the opponent can hit it back. Points are scored when a player fails to return the ball.
What are the Different Types of Table Tennis?
There are several different types of Table Tennis, such as:
- Singles – one player against another
- Doubles – two players against two players
- Team – three players against three players
What are the Table Tennis Equipment?
The equipment needed to play Table Tennis includes:
- Table Tennis Table
- Table Tennis Net
- Table Tennis Balls
- Table Tennis Rackets
Conclusion
Table Tennis is a popular sport that has gone by three different names since its invention in the late 19th century. The original name of the game was ‘Gossima’, followed by ‘Whiff-Whaff’, and then ‘Ping-Pong’. The game was popularized in the United States and Europe by members of the British upper class, and the rules of the game remain the same to this day. The equipment needed to play Table Tennis includes a table, a net, balls, and rackets.