What term is used to describe a ball in motion that accidentally strikes an outside influence?

The term "rub of the green" is used in golf to describe a situation where a ball in motion strikes an outside influence, such as a spectator, an animal, or any object not part of the course, and is a part of the game’s rules. This phrase encapsulates the idea that such occurrences are considered a natural part of the game, and the player's ball is typically played as it lies, without any additional penalty or change.

In contrast, the other terms do not carry the same definition within the rules of golf. For instance, "stuck ball" refers to a situation where the ball is stuck in a position and cannot be played, while "external hit" is not an officially recognized term in golf to describe interactions with outside influences. "Interference" generally indicates a scenario where a player’s shot is obstructed or impacted in some way, but it does not specifically refer to the moment a ball in motion strikes an outside object. Thus, "rub of the green" accurately represents the event described, capturing the essence of how golf embraces the unpredictable nature of play.