Blackjack Key Terms And Meanings Explained
For those new to blackjack, a lot of the terminology can seem rather confusing- understanding these terms can be crucial to those interested in taking up the classic card game.
This guide aims to make these terms clear and easy to understand; by breaking down the language of blackjack, you won’t be confused by any jargon.
As you continue reading, you’ll hopefully find it easier to follow the game, whether online or with friends.
Blackjack Key Terms You Need To Know
21+3
A side bet that combines your first two cards with the dealer’s upcard to form a three-card poker hand of a straight or better. The 21+3 side bet is separate from the main game.
86’d
A term used to indicate a player’s exclusion from a casino, often as a result of undesirable behaviour.
Ace
A versatile card that can be valued at either 1 or 11, depending on the situation in the game.
Anchorman
The player seated at the far end of the table, acting last before the dealer.
Bankroll
The amount of money you’ve set aside specifically for gambling- it’s wise to manage it responsibly.
Basic Strategy
A set of guidelines advising the best statistical move in any given blackjack situation.
Blackjack
A hand consisting of an ace and a 10-value card, totalling 21. It’s the best hand you can possibly get.
Box
The betting area on the table where you place your chips.
Burn Card
The top card of the deck that is discarded to help maintain the game’s integrity.
Bust
When the total value of your hand exceeds 21, resulting in an automatic loss for that round.
Chips
Tokens used in casinos to represent money. They’re used for placing bets on the table.
Colour Up
The act of exchanging smaller denomination chips for higher ones at the table.
Continuous Shuffle Machine (CSM)
A device that shuffles cards after every hand, reducing predictability.
Cut Card
A plastic card used by the dealer to cut the deck after shuffling.
Dealer
The person responsible for dealing the cards and managing the game. They follow house rules.
Discard
Cards that have already been played and are no longer in use. These are kept separate from the draw deck.
Double After Split (DAS)
The option to double your bet on a split hand. It’s allowed in some games.
Double Down
The option to double your bet in exchange for committing to stand after receiving one more card.
Even Money
Even money is a side bet offered to players when they have blackjack and the dealer shows an ace, offering a payout equal to their bet to avoid a possible push.
Face Cards
Cards with a face on them: kings, queens, and jacks. Each is worth 10.
Flat Betting
Betting the same amount each round rather than varying the stakes.
Hand
The cards held by either the player or the dealer during a game of blackjack.
Hard Hand
A hand without an ace, or one where the ace counts as 1, so it doesn’t exceed 21.
Hit
To request another card in hopes of improving your hand’s total.
Hit 17
A rule where the dealer must draw additional cards until they reach or exceed 17.
Hole Card
The dealer’s face-down card that is revealed once players finish their hands.
House Edge
The statistical advantage the casino has over players- it’s a good reason for players to gamble wisely.
Insurance
A side bet offered when the dealer’s upcard is an ace. It can help protect against a dealer blackjack.
Multi Deck
Games with more than one deck of cards in play, often to make card counting difficult.
Natural
Another term for blackjack, an ace and a 10-value card dealt as the initial two cards.
No Double After Split (NDAS)
When doubling down on split hands is not permitted by the rules.
Peek
A rule where the dealer is permitted to check for a blackjack if they show an ace or a 10-value card.
Penetration
Refers to how much of the deck is dealt before reshuffling occurs.
Perfect Pairs
A specific side bet where players can win if their initial two cards form a pair.
Push
A tie between the dealer and player, resulting in the return of your original bet.
Shoe
A device used to hold multiple decks of cards and aid in dealing them efficiently.
Shuffle
The act of mixing up the deck of cards to ensure randomness in each round.
Side Bet
An additional wager placed alongside the main game for a chance at extra payouts.
Soft Hand
A hand containing an ace valued as 11 without busting. It offers flexibility.
Split
The option to separate your initial two cards, if they’re a pair, into two hands.
Stand
To keep your current hand and decide not to take additional cards.
Surrender
The decision to forfeit half your bet and end your hand early, often when your initial cards are unfavourable.
Upcard
The dealer’s card that is dealt face-up, visible to all players.
Wonging
A technique where players join a game in progress, often when the deck is favourable, and it’s sometimes not welcomed in all casinos.
Is Knowing Blackjack Terms Important?
Understanding the terms used in blackjack can be beneficial for a more enjoyable and informed gaming experience. When you are familiar with the language of blackjack, it becomes easier to follow the game and understand what is happening at the table.
Knowing these terms can also help you make better decisions, as each term relates to specific actions or strategies that can influence your play.
Being familiar with blackjack jargon also allows for smoother communication with dealers and fellow players, enhancing your experience whether you are playing online or in a casino.
Additionally, understanding the terms can help you manage your expectations and make more responsible decisions, such as when to stay or fold.
Ultimately, while the main goal is enjoyment, being knowledgeable about the terms can make the game easier to understand and more engaging, all while supporting responsible gambling practices.
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**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
