It is believe that the word "tennis" is derived from the French word, "tenir", meaning "to take heed". It is thought that early French tennis players would warn their opponents of a serve coming by yelling "tenez" (prounounced, "ten-AY"; i.e., "take heed, you!"), in a manner similar to a golfer's warning of "fore" before hitting the Golf ball. Refer to the link, below, for further information.
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