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.


Mastering this slang ensures you know exactly what is happening during fast-paced games.

Basic Betting and Money Slang

A 'bankroll' is the total amount of money you have specifically set aside for your gambling session.


A 'high roller' or 'whale' is a VIP gambler who wagers tens of thousands of dollars per hand.

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
Game-Specific Terminology

When playing 21, the term 'bust' indicates that a hand has gone over the maximum limit and lost.


For slot machines, a 'loose' machine is one that supposedly pays out more frequently than others.

TermGameDefinitionShoeBlackjack/BaccaratThe box that holds the decks of cardsPit BossAll Table GamesThe supervisor monitoring a group of tables

Do not be afraid to ask the dealer to explain a term if you are confused; they are there to help.