Decoding Casino Slang: A Glossary For New Players

Walking into a casino can feel like entering a foreign country where everyone speaks a completely different language.


Before sitting down at a high-stakes table, you should familiarize yourself with these common phrases.

Basic Betting and Money Slang

The term 'bankroll' refers strictly to the funds you are willing to risk on the casino floor.


If someone refers to a 'whale,' they are talking about an incredibly wealthy player who bets massive amounts.

A 'marker' is basically an IOU or a line of credit extended by the casino'Action' refers to the total amount of money wagered over a specific period'Vig' or 'Vigorish' is the fee the house takes on certain bets
Important Phrases for Specific Games

In Blackjack, 'busting' means your card total has exceeded 21, resulting in an automatic loss.


In Craps, the 'shooter' is the person currently rolling the dice, and a 'snake eyes' is a roll of two.

PhraseUsageExplanationHit MeBlackjackA request for another card from the dealerLet it RideGeneral BettingLeaving your winnings on the table for the next bet

Knowing the lingo adds an extra layer of enjoyment and authenticity to your gambling experience.