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.
Common Financial Terms in the Casino
A ‘bankroll’ is the total amount of money you have specifically set aside for your gambling session.
Conversely, a ‘grinder’ is a player who makes small bets over a long period to slowly build a profit.
- 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
Slang Used at the Tables and Slots
At the blackjack table, a ‘hard hand’ is any hand that does not contain an Ace acting as an 11.
In Craps, the ‘shooter’ is the person currently rolling the dice, and a ‘snake eyes’ is a roll of two.
| Slang Word | Context | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Eye in the Sky | Security | The network of cameras watching the floor |
| Edge | Mathematics | The casino’s statistical advantage |
Do not be afraid to ask the dealer to explain a term if you are confused; they are there to help.
