Craps Glossary: Master The Lingo & Play Like A Pro
Hey guys! Ever felt lost at the craps table because everyone's throwing around terms you've never heard before? Don't worry, you're not alone! Craps has its own unique language, and this glossary is your key to unlocking it. We're going to break down all the essential craps terms, so you can step up to the table with confidence and start rolling those dice like a pro. Let's dive in and learn the lingo!
Essential Craps Terms You Need to Know
Action: In the thrilling world of craps, action refers to the total amount of money wagered during a game or a specific period. It's the heartbeat of the craps table, representing the collective bets and the dynamic flow of the game. Understanding the action helps players gauge the game's intensity and potential winnings. Seasoned players often track the action to inform their betting strategies, recognizing patterns and trends that might influence their decisions. Whether you're a high roller or a casual player, being aware of the action adds another layer to your craps experience, enhancing your engagement and enjoyment. So, next time you're at the table, pay attention to the action – it's more than just numbers; it's the story of the game unfolding before your eyes. High action can indicate a hot table, which might attract more players and increase the overall excitement.
Any Craps: The Any Craps bet is a single-roll wager that the next roll will be a 2, 3, or 12. If any of these numbers hit, you win! If not, you lose. It's a simple, straightforward bet with a relatively high house edge, so use it sparingly. The Any Craps bet is often seen as a sucker bet due to its high house edge, but it can be tempting for players looking for a quick win. The payout for Any Craps is typically 7 to 1, but it can vary slightly depending on the casino. Despite the allure of a quick payout, it's essential to understand the odds before placing this bet. Many experienced players avoid the Any Craps bet altogether, opting for wagers with better odds and lower house edges.
Any Seven: This is a single-roll bet that the next roll will be a 7. Like Any Craps, it's a fast bet with a high house edge. The payout is usually 4 to 1. Betting on Any Seven carries a significant risk due to the low probability of rolling a 7 on a single roll. While the payout might seem attractive, the odds are heavily stacked against the player. Professional craps players often advise against this bet, steering players toward more strategic and favorable wagers. The Any Seven bet is a quick way to potentially win or lose money, making it a volatile option for those looking for consistent returns. Remember, understanding the odds is crucial, and the Any Seven bet is generally not a wise choice for serious players.
Back Line: See Don't Pass Line.
Bankroll: Your bankroll is the total amount of money you have set aside for gambling. It's crucial to manage your bankroll wisely to avoid losing more than you can afford. Always set a budget before you start playing and stick to it! Proper bankroll management is the cornerstone of responsible gambling. It involves setting clear limits on how much you're willing to spend and adhering to those limits regardless of wins or losses. A well-managed bankroll allows you to enjoy the game without the stress of financial strain. Seasoned gamblers often allocate a specific percentage of their bankroll for each session, ensuring they don't risk too much on any single day. Effective bankroll management also includes knowing when to stop, whether you're on a winning streak or experiencing a losing streak. It's about playing smart and staying in control of your finances.
Barred: Some bets have specific numbers that are "barred," meaning they result in a push (no win or loss) instead of a loss. For example, the Don't Pass bet is often barred on the 12. When a number is barred, it changes the odds of the bet, typically making it slightly more favorable for the house. Understanding which numbers are barred on specific bets is crucial for making informed decisions at the craps table. This rule is designed to balance the odds and ensure the house maintains a slight advantage. Players should always be aware of the barred numbers before placing their bets to avoid surprises and adjust their strategies accordingly.
Big 6, Big 8: These are bets that the shooter will roll a 6 or an 8 before a 7. They are similar to Place bets on the 6 and 8, but they offer worse odds, so avoid them! The Big 6 and Big 8 bets are often seen as traps for inexperienced players due to their unfavorable odds compared to Place bets. While they might seem simple and straightforward, the house edge is significantly higher, making them less attractive options for informed gamblers. Smart craps players steer clear of the Big 6 and Big 8, opting instead for the Place bets on 6 and 8, which offer better payouts and a lower house edge. Understanding these subtle differences in odds is essential for maximizing your chances of winning at the craps table. Always compare the odds of different bets before placing your wager to ensure you're making the most strategic choice.
Bones: Bones is just another name for the dice! You'll often hear players call them bones for a bit of old-school flair. The term bones dates back to the origins of craps and adds a touch of tradition to the game. Calling the dice bones is a fun way to engage with the history of craps and connect with its roots. While it's just a slang term, using bones can make you feel more like a seasoned player, even if you're just starting out. So, next time you're at the craps table, impress your fellow players by referring to the dice as bones.
Box Numbers: The box numbers in craps are 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10. These are the numbers you can place bets on after the point has been established. Placing bets on the box numbers is a popular strategy for players looking to capitalize on the potential for multiple rolls after the come-out roll. Each box number has its own odds and payout, so it's important to understand the nuances of each before placing your bets. Seasoned craps players often have specific strategies for betting on the box numbers, adjusting their wagers based on the flow of the game and the shooter's tendencies. The box numbers offer a wide range of betting opportunities, making them a key element of craps strategy.
Buy Bet: A buy bet is similar to a place bet, but you pay a commission (usually 5%) to get true odds on the 4, 5, 9, or 10. It's typically only worth it on larger bets, where the true odds outweigh the commission. The buy bet can be a strategic option for players looking to maximize their payouts on specific numbers. However, it's crucial to calculate whether the commission is justified by the higher payout. Experienced craps players often use buy bets selectively, focusing on situations where the potential return outweighs the cost of the commission. Understanding the math behind the buy bet is essential for making informed decisions and avoiding unnecessary expenses. Always consider the size of your bet and the true odds before opting for a buy bet.
C and E: This is a combination bet. C represents any craps (2, 3, or 12), and E represents 11 (also known as "yo"). It's a single-roll bet with a high house edge. The C and E bet is a quick and easy way to bet on two different outcomes with a single wager. However, the high house edge makes it a less favorable option for serious players. While the potential for a quick payout might be tempting, the odds are significantly stacked against the player. Experienced craps players often avoid the C and E bet, opting for more strategic wagers with better odds. Understanding the probabilities is crucial, and the C and E bet is generally not a wise choice for those looking for consistent returns.
Cold Table: A cold table is when the shooters aren't hitting their numbers, and players are losing money. It's the opposite of a hot table. When a table is cold, it can be a frustrating experience for players, as wins are few and far between. Some players believe in changing tables when they encounter a cold table, hoping to find a more favorable environment. Others might adjust their betting strategies, playing more conservatively to minimize their losses. Recognizing a cold table and adapting your approach accordingly is a key skill for managing your bankroll and avoiding significant losses.
Come Bet: The Come Bet is like a Pass Line bet made after the point has been established. You place your bet, and the next roll becomes the "come-out" roll for your bet. If a 7 or 11 is rolled, you win. If a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled, you lose. Any other number becomes your "come point." The Come Bet allows players to enter the game after the initial come-out roll and still participate in the Pass Line action. It's a versatile bet that can be used in conjunction with other strategies to increase your chances of winning. Understanding the mechanics of the Come Bet is essential for any craps player looking to diversify their betting options and enhance their overall gameplay.
Come Out Roll: The come out roll is the first roll of the dice in a craps round, determining the point for the Pass Line and Don't Pass Line bets. The come out roll sets the stage for the rest of the round, and the outcome can significantly impact the flow of the game. A 7 or 11 on the come out roll is a win for Pass Line bettors, while a 2, 3, or 12 is a loss. Any other number becomes the point, and the game continues until the point or a 7 is rolled. Understanding the significance of the come out roll is fundamental to playing craps effectively.
Don't Come Bet: The Don't Come Bet is the opposite of the Come Bet. You're betting that a 7 will be rolled before your "come point." The Don't Come Bet offers players the opportunity to bet against the shooter after the point has been established. It's a strategic option for those who believe the shooter is likely to roll a 7 before hitting their come point. The Don't Come Bet can be used in conjunction with other strategies to hedge your bets and potentially profit from the shooter's misfortune.
Don't Pass Line Bet: This is a bet that the shooter will not pass. On the come-out roll, you win if a 2 or 3 is rolled, and you lose if a 7 or 11 is rolled. A 12 is usually a push (no win or loss). If a point is established, you win if a 7 is rolled before the point. The Don't Pass Line Bet is a fundamental bet in craps, offering players the opportunity to bet against the shooter. It's a strategic option for those who believe the shooter is unlikely to hit their point. The Don't Pass Line Bet has a slightly lower house edge than the Pass Line Bet, making it an attractive option for some players.
Double Odds: Placing a double odds bet means betting twice your Pass Line or Don't Pass Line bet on the odds. It reduces the house edge and increases your potential payout. Taking advantage of double odds is a smart strategy for experienced craps players looking to maximize their winnings and minimize the house edge. The double odds bet offers true odds, meaning there is no house advantage on this portion of your wager. Understanding the benefits of double odds is crucial for making informed decisions and improving your overall craps strategy.
Easy Way: Refers to rolling a 4, 6, 8, or 10 without rolling a pair (e.g., a 3 and a 1 is an "easy" 4). An easy way bet typically refers to betting on a 4, 6, 8, or 10 that is rolled without a pair. For example, a 3 and 1 is an easy way to make a 4. These bets are often associated with proposition bets, which have a higher house edge. Knowing the difference between an easy way and a hard way (rolling a pair) is important for understanding the nuances of craps betting options.
Field Bet: A field bet is a single-roll bet that the next roll will be a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12. Payouts vary depending on the number rolled. The field bet is a simple and straightforward bet, but it's important to understand the payouts for each number before placing your wager. The house edge on the field bet can vary depending on the casino, so it's always a good idea to check the payout structure before playing. While the field bet can be tempting for its potential for quick wins, it's important to consider the odds and the house edge before placing your bet.
Hard Way: Rolling a 4, 6, 8, or 10 as a pair (e.g., 2 and 2 is a "hard" 4). These bets pay out higher odds than the "easy way," but they are also riskier. A hard way bet is a wager that a 4, 6, 8, or 10 will be rolled as a pair before a 7 or the number is rolled the easy way. For example, a hard way 6 is rolled when the dice show 3 and 3. Hard way bets offer higher payouts but also have a higher house edge, making them a riskier option. Understanding the odds and the potential payouts is crucial before placing a hard way bet.
Hi-Lo: A single-roll bet that the next roll will be a 2 or a 12. The Hi-Lo bet is a combination bet that the next roll will be either a 2 (low) or a 12 (high). It's a single-roll bet with a high house edge, making it a less favorable option for serious players. While the potential for a quick payout might be tempting, the odds are significantly stacked against the player. Experienced craps players often avoid the Hi-Lo bet, opting for more strategic wagers with better odds.
Hot Table: A hot table is when the shooters are consistently hitting their numbers, and players are winning money. It's the opposite of a cold table. A hot table is a craps table where the shooters are consistently making their points and hitting winning numbers. It's a desirable situation for players, as it increases their chances of winning. Recognizing a hot table and adjusting your betting strategy accordingly can lead to significant profits. Some players believe in sticking with a hot table as long as the winning streak continues.
Inside Numbers: The inside numbers are the 5, 6, 8, and 9. These are common numbers to place bets on. The inside numbers are a group of numbers commonly targeted in craps strategies. Placing bets on the inside numbers offers a balance between payout odds and frequency of hitting. Many players develop specific strategies around betting on the inside numbers, adjusting their wagers based on the flow of the game and the shooter's tendencies. Understanding the odds and potential payouts of the inside numbers is essential for developing a well-rounded craps strategy.
Lay Bet: A lay bet is the opposite of a place bet. You're betting that a 7 will be rolled before a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10). You pay a commission on a lay bet. A lay bet is a wager that a 7 will be rolled before a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) is rolled. It's the opposite of a place bet. Lay bets require paying a commission, which affects the overall payout. Understanding the commission structure and the odds is crucial before placing a lay bet. Lay bets can be a strategic option for players who believe a 7 is likely to be rolled before a specific number.
Odds Bet: An odds bet is an additional bet you can make on your Pass Line or Don't Pass Line bet after a point has been established. It pays out at true odds, meaning there is no house edge. Taking advantage of the odds bet is a smart strategy for experienced craps players looking to maximize their winnings and minimize the house edge. The odds bet offers true odds, meaning there is no house advantage on this portion of your wager. Understanding the benefits of the odds bet is crucial for making informed decisions and improving your overall craps strategy.
Outside Numbers: The outside numbers are the 4, 5, 9, and 10. These numbers are less frequently rolled than the inside numbers. The outside numbers are a group of numbers that offer different payout odds compared to the inside numbers. Placing bets on the outside numbers can be a strategic option for players looking for higher payouts, but it's important to consider the lower frequency of these numbers being rolled. Understanding the odds and potential payouts of the outside numbers is essential for developing a well-rounded craps strategy.
Pass Line Bet: This is the most fundamental bet in craps. On the come-out roll, you win if a 7 or 11 is rolled and lose if a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled. If a point is established (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), you win if that point is rolled again before a 7. The Pass Line Bet is the most common and fundamental bet in craps. It's a wager that the shooter will make their point before rolling a 7. Understanding the Pass Line Bet is essential for any beginner craps player. It's a simple and straightforward bet with a relatively low house edge.
Point: The point is the number established on the come-out roll (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10). Once a point is established, the shooter must roll that number again before rolling a 7 in order for Pass Line bets to win. The point is a crucial element of craps gameplay, as it determines the objective for the shooter and the outcome of many bets. Understanding the significance of the point is fundamental to playing craps effectively.
Place Bet: A place bet is a bet that a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) will be rolled before a 7. Place bets are a popular way to bet on specific numbers in craps. They can be placed at any time after the come-out roll. Understanding the odds and payouts for each number is crucial before placing a place bet. Place bets offer a range of betting options and can be a strategic way to target specific numbers.
Proposition Bets (Prop Bets): These are single-roll bets with high payouts and a high house edge. Examples include betting on a specific number combination (like a 3-3 for a hard 6) or betting on any 7. Proposition Bets, also known as Prop Bets, are single-roll wagers that offer high payouts but come with a significant house edge. These bets are often considered sucker bets due to their low probability of winning. Examples of Prop Bets include betting on specific number combinations or betting on any 7. Understanding the high house edge associated with Prop Bets is essential before placing these wagers.
Right Bettor: A right bettor is a player who bets with the shooter, placing bets on the Pass Line and Come bets. A right bettor is a player who bets that the shooter will make their point and win. Right bettors typically place bets on the Pass Line and Come bets. Betting as a right bettor aligns you with the shooter and the majority of players at the table.
Seven Out: This occurs when the shooter rolls a 7 before hitting the point. This ends the shooter's turn and results in a loss for Pass Line bets. A seven out is when the shooter rolls a 7 before making their point. This results in the loss of Pass Line bets and ends the shooter's turn, passing the dice to the next player. The term seven out is commonly used at the craps table to announce this outcome.
Shooter: The shooter is the person rolling the dice. The shooter is the player who rolls the dice in craps. The shooter role rotates around the table, giving each player a chance to roll. The shooter's goal is to make their point or roll a winning number.
Stickman: The stickman is a casino employee who uses a long stick to move the dice around the table and calls out the numbers rolled. The stickman is responsible for managing the dice and calling out the results of each roll. The stickman also often encourages players to make proposition bets.
Taking the Odds: Taking the Odds means placing an additional bet behind your Pass Line or Come bet, which pays out at true odds. Taking the Odds refers to placing an additional bet on top of your initial Pass Line or Come bet, after a point has been established. This additional bet pays out at true odds, meaning there is no house edge on this portion of your wager. Taking the Odds is a strategic way to increase your potential winnings while minimizing the house edge.
Working Bets: Working Bets are bets that are active and in play. This means they are eligible to win or lose on the next roll. Working Bets are bets that are currently active and can win or lose on the next roll of the dice. Understanding which bets are working is important for managing your risk and maximizing your potential winnings.
Wrong Bettor: A wrong bettor is a player who bets against the shooter, placing bets on the Don't Pass Line and Don't Come bets. A wrong bettor is a player who bets that the shooter will not make their point. They typically place bets on the Don't Pass Line and Don't Come bets. Betting as a wrong bettor goes against the majority of players at the table and can sometimes be frowned upon.
Yo (Yo-leven): This is slang for the number 11, used to avoid confusion with the number 7. Yo, short for Yo-leven, is a slang term used to refer to the number 11 in craps. This term is used to clearly differentiate it from the number 7, preventing any misunderstandings during gameplay.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! You're now armed with the knowledge to navigate the craps table like a seasoned player. Don't be intimidated by the lingo – embrace it! Understanding these terms will not only make you feel more confident but also allow you to make more informed betting decisions. Now get out there, roll those dice, and have some fun! Good luck, and may the odds be ever in your favor!