TOPPED SHOT
A topped shot - often just called a "top" - is one in which the golfer very nearly swings over the ball, with impact between club and ball occurring near the crown of the golf ball. The result of a topped shot is the ball scooting along the ground with tremendous topsin. How severe the top is determines how far the ball will go, with more severe tops (nearly missing the ball completely) sending the ball only few yards forward.
Topped shots are commonly confused with Wormburners. When a player tops the ball the ball only travels a minimal distance, usually under 20 yards. Wormburners, although kept low to the ground like a topped shot, still travel deceivingly far. The ball is hit hard but low and is still able to travel a surprisingly far distance.