Pool / Billiards

  1. Home
  2. Sports
  3. Pool / Billiards

Massé

By Matthew Sherman, About.com

Definition:

The cue ball is struck off center with a cue stick held almost vertical. The ball curves greatly on its path, often with a sudden, dramatic change of speed in the middle of the shot.

The massé is a rare need in pool, used for desperation shots. Professionals mostly use the massé for trick shots, making the balls do amazing stunts that truly awe onlookers.

Pronunciation: Pronounced “mass-say”.
Also Known As: Swerve Shot
Examples: Billy hit a beautiful massé, with the cue ball going straight ahead before taking a complete right angle turn, without ever having struck another ball!

Explore Pool / Billiards

About.com Special Features

Pool / Billiards

  1. Home
  2. Sports
  3. Pool / Billiards
  4. Pool Glossary
  5. "M"
  6. Pool Definition -- Massé

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.