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Dictionary definition of “DNF”

DNF

adj. 1. did not finish, in course-based sporting events, such as boating, auto-racing, and horse-racing. 2. did not find, in geocaching. Subjects: English, Sports & Recreation, Jargon, Acronym

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Citations: 1943 James Robbins New York Times (July 29) “Race Week Starts at Larchmont Y.C.” p. 15: [boat-racing scores:] D.G. Millar, d.n.f. 1978 Globe and Mail (Toronto, Can.) (Aug. 30) “Winds helpful to U.S. sailor in CORK event” p. P31: The worst finish has been dropped in computing the standing in classes that have completed five or more races): dns–did not start; pms–premature start; dnc–did not compete; dnf did not finish. 2004 Parker Morse Flashes of Panic (May 2) “Community watch”: There is—or was—a cache there called “Valley View Too” which hadn’t been found since last May, though with only one “Did Not Find” logged since then. (Curiously, the caching slang for a failed search, “DNF”, is the same as the runners’ slang for a failed race, where it indicates “Did Not Finish.”)

Posted 13 May 04 | Permalink | Tell a Friend

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