How Do You Spell SKELLIES?

1. Skellies is a slang term primarily used in New Zealand and Australia, referring to a game called "skeletons" that is played with marbles. This term can also extend to encompass various related games or variations played with marbles, whether in different countries or regions.

   In the game of skellies, players typically draw a large rectangle on the ground, dividing it into numbered sections. Each section is assigned a particular number and players take turns flicking their marbles into the sections to score points. The objective is to achieve the highest score by strategically placing marbles in the most advantageous sections. Skellies requires not only skill and precision, but also a keen understanding of angles and trajectory.

   Beyond the specific game, "skellies" can be used more broadly to describe any game involving marbles, especially those played competitively. It can also encompass a general term for individual marbles that are used in such games. In this context, skellies becomes a colloquialism to refer to the game itself or the marbles involved, often used by enthusiasts and players familiar with the game culture.

   However, it is important to note that due to its slang nature and geographical specificity, the term "skellies" may not be widely recognized or understood outside of the mentioned regions and communities where the game is popular.

The word "skellies" is believed to have originated in Scottish dialects and has a connection to the game of marbles. It is derived from the Scottish word "skelly", which refers to a game played with marbles or stones. In the game of skellies, players use a marble or small stone to strike other marbles or stones out of a designated area. Over time, "skelly" was adapted to "skellies" to refer to both the game itself and the marbles used in it. The etymology of "skellies" illustrates its regional Scottish roots and its association with traditional games.

Conjugate verb Skellies