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
When playing 21, the term ‘bust’ indicates that a hand has gone over the maximum limit and lost.
At the craps table, rolling a seven after the point is established is known as ‘sevening out’.
| 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.