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.


Learning this terminology will not only make you sound like a pro but also help you avoid costly misunderstandings.

Basic Betting and Money Slang

Your 'bankroll' is your gaming budget, and protecting it should be your top priority.


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 WordContextMeaningEye in the SkySecurityThe network of cameras watching the floorEdgeMathematicsThe casino's statistical advantage

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