A Beginners A-Z Guide to Online Blackjack Terminology

Although most casino games are simple to play and easy to get the hang of, the terminology involved can often be difficult for new players to pick up. Experienced players also sometimes come unstuck with a few words or phrases often used. This certainly applies to blackjack.

 

Now that you’ve got the terminology behind you, why not learn more about blackjack strategies!

 

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games. The aim of the game is simple: have a hand that is equal to, or higher than the dealer’s, without going over 21.

Before you get started, it’s important to learn some terms associated with the game. As easy as it can be to play, new players may struggle if they don’t understand what certain words mean. Take a look below at some of terms associated with blackjack.

 

Key blackjack terms

Ace – This card can either count as 1 or 11.

Bankroll – The total amount of money, or chips, the player has to play with.

Blackjack – Two-card hand which is made up of an Ace and any 10-value card.

Bust – To go over a total of 21.

Buy-in – The exchange of money for chips.

Double down – To double your original bet so you receive another card.

Hit – Take another card from the dealer.

Insurance – A bet that is offered to the player when the dealer shows an Ace. This is paid at 2/1 if the dealer gets blackjack.

Shoe – Where the cards are dealt from.

Split – The option to bet your original amount again and split your two cards into two hands.

 

Other blackjack terms

Action – The total money wagered on all your hands.

Anchor player – The player seated far left of the table. This will be the last player to act before the dealer does.

Bet spread – The ratio of maximum bet to minimum bet.

Box – An area where the bets are placed.

Burn card – The card discarded by the dealer after the cards are shuffled.

Chip down – To decrease your bet from the last hand.

Chip up – To increase your bet from the last hand.

Even money – The option to take 1/1 payout on your bet if you have blackjack and the dealer shows an Ace.

First base – The first seat to the left of the dealer.

Flasher – A dealer who inadvertently shows their down card to players.

Flat bet – Betting the same amount every hand.

Hard hand – A hand not containing an Ace, meaning it can only have one value.

Heads up – Playing alone or with a dealer.

Hole card – The dealer’s face-down card.

Monkey – A card that has the value of 10.

Natural – Another term for a blackjack.

Paint – A picture card.

Pair – A two-card hand containing cards with equal value.

Pat hand – A hand that equals 17-21 and won’t require another hit.

Perfect play – A strategy used by players using a mix of hit, stand and split to utilise their hand.

Soft hand – A hand holding an Ace that is valued as 11, allowing for another card to be taken.

Stand – A decision made by the player to not take any more cards.

Stand-off – When a player has the same amount as the dealer.

Surrender – Forfeiting half of the bet if you believe you cannot beat the dealer.

Toke – Tip for the dealer.

Upcard – The dealer’s initial hand that is dealt face-up.

 

Online Blackjack is becoming increasingly more popular, and there are lots of different tables for you to choose from, all with varied staking options.

Join our live hosts in the Live Casino, who will guide you through every hand. Chat to fellow players to get that authentic Casino experience. Plus you can play at our exclusive blackjack tables. So, now that you know all the blackjack terminology, are you ready to play?