The world of online live casino games comes with its own unique language. For newcomers, conversations between seasoned players and the dealer can almost sound like another language. To truly enjoy the live casino experience, it helps to brush up on some common slang and jargon. This guide serves as your go-to reference covering key terms you’ll frequently encounter at House Casino.
Key Player Types
- High Roller – A high roller refers to a player who wages large bets, usually spending thousands per round. They receive lavish treatment, including personalized service and casino comps.
- Whale – Similar to a high roller, a whale is a gambler who regularly stakes incredibly large sums, often tens or hundreds of thousands per session. Online casinos pull out all stops to keep these major money players happy.
- Grinder – Unlike high rollers, grinders focus on making small, steady profits over time vs big wins. They may play longer sessions and stick to low limit games to grind out small edges.
Table Game Lingo
RNG
Short for “random number generator,” RNG refers to the computerized algorithms used to ensure fairness in online casino game outcomes. RNGs are extensively tested by third-party agencies.
Shoe
The box that holds the cards during a game like blackjack or baccarat is called the shoe. Typically, shoes contain 4–8 decks to allow continuous play.
Banker
In some casino table games, one player takes on the role of banker, providing funds that all other players bet against. Being a banker rotates between players.
Burn card
In card table games, the top card removed from the deck and discarded to prevent cheating is called the burn card. This ensures no one sees the top card in play.
Layout
The layout refers to the felt grid on a table used to place bets. It contains designated areas for different types of wagers.
Common Casino Slang
Action
In top casino slots lingo, the term action refers to the total amount of money being wagered by players currently at a table. Dealers might shout things like “Lots of action on this roll!”
Angle Shooting
Angle shooting describes any questionable casino etiquette where players exploit loopholes or use tactics like intimidation to unfairly swing odds in their favor. This also includes counting cards which, while not illegal, is greatly discouraged.
Betting unit
Also shortened as “unit,” a betting unit represents the value assigned to a single chip. This unit differs across casinos and tables depending on minimums and maximums.
Comps
Short for complimentaries, comps refer to free gifts, meals, and perks casinos lavish upon players to encourage loyalty. What comps you receive often depend on factors like bets placed and player status.
Proposition wagers
Also called prop bets, proposition wagers are exotic side gambles beyond standard bets offered on casino tables to increase excitement. Common examples include betting on a hard 8 or if the dealer’s “second” card will be odd.
Table talk
Table talk describes the chatter that goes on between players and the dealer at a table game. Good-natured table talk creates a fun atmosphere. But be aware, rules vary on what talk is acceptable.
Tilt
When emotions overcome logic and players make unusually large, risky bets after wins or losses, they are said to be “on tilt.” Tilting leads to overextending one’s bankroll, so its key players stay disciplined.
Related Terminology
While not exclusive to casinos, you’ll encounter the following terms frequently when playing live online:
- All-in: Moving all your remaining chips into the pot for that hand
- Bad beat: A strong hand edged out by an underdog at the last second
- Bluff: Betting strongly with a weak hand to get others to fold
- Check: Remaining in a round but not making a bet
- Fold: Bowing out of a hand you don’t feel confident in
- Four of a kind: Getting four of the same card value in a hand
So now you’re armed with knowledge for intelligently following the action at online live casino games. Just remember, what happens at the (virtual) table stays there. Have fun!