Translation guide
A shuttlecock is the projectile used in badminton. In Japanese, it is most commonly called シャトル, but the traditional term 羽根 is also used. This guide covers how to refer to the object in various contexts.
シャトル
shuttlecock (badminton)
Referring to the feathered or plastic projectile hit in badminton.
The most common and modern term, borrowed from English 'shuttle'. Used in everyday conversation and sports contexts.
シャトルを打つ。
Hit the shuttlecock.
新しいシャトルを買った。
I bought new shuttlecocks.
Literally 'feather'. A traditional term for shuttlecock, often used in the context of the game 羽根つき (hanetsuki), a Japanese New Year's game similar to badminton but without a net.
羽根つきで羽根を突く。
Hit the shuttlecock in hanetsuki.
Descriptive phrase meaning 'badminton feather'. Used when clarification is needed, but less common than シャトル.
バドミントンの羽根が壊れた。
The shuttlecock broke.
Use シャトル for modern badminton. 羽根 is more associated with the traditional game 羽根つき. If you're playing badminton, シャトル is the natural choice.