The word fore is actually a Scottish interjection, used to warn people when a shot is taken, so as to cover their heads, or watch out for when the ball might be coming their way.
This has historically been used as a courtesy to other players and spectators, and is especially used when harder centered golf balls are in play – i.e. ones with a harder inner core that could cause some serious damage if they made contact with a human being.
While the origins of the word are not entirely known for certain, many have speculated that it comes from the name ‘fore-caddie’ – that is, the caddie who waits further down the range, and who might be at risk of being struck when the shot is taken.
The term ‘fore-caddie’ was originally shouted as a warning for incoming golf balls, eventually being shortened to ‘fore’ as the game and ensuing years progressed.
There has also been speculation that it stems from the Gaelic cry ‘Faugh A Ballagh’ – which translates to ‘Clear The Way’. This is a term still used in ‘road bowling’, a regional sport that takes inspiration from the earlier forms of golf.