In golf, "par" refers to the number of strokes that an expert golfer is expected to take to complete a hole or a round of golf. For example, a par 3 hole should ideally be completed in three strokes, while a par 72 course indicates a full 18-hole round should take about 72 strokes. Achieving par means a player has played at the expected level, while scores below par indicate better-than-expected performance, showcasing a golfer's skill and proficiency.