Mulligan

Mulligan is a term used in several different contexts. In golf, a mulligan is a do-over shot taken after a poor opening stroke. While common in casual play, it is not allowed in formal competition and is typically agreed upon informally by the players involved. The practice remains controversial and its acceptance varies by region and house rules.

In games and card play, a mulligan refers to drawing a new starting hand or reshuffling and attempting again. The number of cards drawn and the conditions for a mulligan vary by game, but the concept generally allows players to improve a weak initial hand or starting position.

Mulligan stew is a traditional hearty dish associated with the American frontier and Irish American cooking. It is typically made from leftovers, meat, vegetables, and sometimes potatoes, simmered together in a single pot. The dish has many regional variations, and the origin of the name is uncertain, with several folk explanations existing.

Mulligan is also a surname of Irish origin. It is borne by numerous individuals in various professions, and has been used as a place name and in fiction as well. The term's broader cultural footprint reflects its ties to sports, food, and everyday life.