Punting

Punting refers to several related terms in English-speaking culture, most notably a boating pastime and a set of kicking plays in certain ball sports, but it also serves as a verb meaning to defer or pass on a decision. The different uses share a common sense of propelling forward or handing something off rather than solving a problem directly.

Punting (boats) is a recreational form of boating on rivers and shallow waters. A punt is a flat-bottomed boat, and a punter uses a long pole to push against the riverbed to move the boat and often to steer. Punts can be stood or seated, and are typically propelled from the stern or bow. The practice has a long history in Europe and remains popular among clubs and river users, especially on rivers such as the Cam and the Thames in the United Kingdom.

Punting (sports) in gridiron football refers to a kicking play used on certain downs. The ball is dropped and kicked before it touches the ground, typically to reposition the ball and gain field position for the defense. A player who executes the kick is called the punter; the receiving team may attempt a return, while defenders try to block the kick. Similar high-kicking plays occur in other football codes, though the term punt is most strongly associated with gridiron football.

Other uses: As a verb, to punt means to defer or postpone a decision, or to transfer responsibility to someone else. The term appeared in sports usage and has entered broader English as a general meaning of shifting responsibility or delaying a resolution.