Master the Lingo & Crush the Game!
Blackjack is a globally popular casino game that has its own unique terminology and vocabulary. Whether you are a newcomer or an existing blackjack player, becoming familiar with some blackjack terms and phrases will improve your gameplay as well as your table-making decisions.
Blackjack Terms and Phrases
Blackjack
A "blackjack" is the best possible hand—a two-card total of 21, an Ace and any 10-point card (10, Jack, Queen, or King). It usually pays 3:2 unless specified otherwise.
21
"21" is a synonym for blackjack, though not every 21 is a blackjack. A two-card 21 is a blackjack, but a three-card or more total of 21 is just a winning hand, but not a blackjack.
Bust
When a player's or dealer's hand exceeds a total of 21, it's referred to as a "bust." A bust automatically results in a loss.
Hit
To "hit" means to request another card from the dealer in hopes of improving the hand without going over 21.
Stand (Stay)
To "stand" (or "stay") means to decline any additional cards and end your turn with your current hand.
Split
If the initial two cards dealt to you are of equal value, you can "split" them into two separate hands. Each hand is dealt a second card and played independently. Players typically place a second bet equal to the initial bet when splitting.
Double Down
Doubling down requires doubling the original bet for a single and sole additional card. It is used when a player has a good chance of winning against the dealer, for example, on a hand value of 10 or 11.
Surrender
Some games of blackjack allow a player to surrender half of their bet and void the hand. This is referred to as a "surrender" and is used in losing hands.
Insurance
If the dealer's upcard is an Ace, players can be offered "insurance"—a side bet that the dealer has blackjack. Insurance is paid 2:1 if the dealer's hole card is a 10-point card.
Push
A "push" occurs when the player and the dealer both have the same total. The result is a tie, and the player's bet is refunded.
Dealer Upcard
This is the dealer's upcard. The value of the upcard often dictates player strategy.
Hole Card
The hole card is the dealer's downcard, revealed after all player actions are completed.
Shoe
The "shoe" is the device that contains multiple decks of cards. Blackjack is often played with 6 or 8 decks to prevent card counting.
Soft Hand
A "soft hand" contains an Ace valued at 11. For example, Ace-6 is a soft 17. Soft hands are more versatile since the Ace can also be valued at 1.
Hard Hand
A "hard hand" lacks an Ace, or the Ace will need to be valued at 1 in order not to bust. For example, a 10-7 or Ace-6 (if the Ace is valued at 1) is a hard 17.
Natural
A "natural" is simply another term for blackjack—a total of 21 on two cards.
Even Money
When a player is given blackjack and the dealer receives an Ace, he or she can be offered "even money." It is a 1:1 payoff in exchange for surrendering the chance of winning 3:2 when the dealer gets blackjack too.
Face Cards
Face cards are Jacks, Queens, and Kings, and they are all worth 10.
House Edge
This is the mathematical advantage the casino enjoys over the player in the long run. Blackjack has one of the lowest house edges of all the casino games, especially if the basic strategy is used.
Counting Cards
A method by which players count high and low cards played to estimate the remaining deck composition. Counting cards is not illegal, but it is frowned upon by casinos.
Blackjack Slang Terms
Snapper
Abbreviation for natural blackjack.
Stiff Hand
A weak hand of 12 to 16. It's risky as a hit may result in a bust, and a stand may not be able to beat the dealer.
Monkey
A common slang among players who want a 10-point card. For example, when a player says "Monkey!" they want the next card to be a 10, Jack, Queen, or King.
Paint
Another name for face cards—Jack, Queen, or King.
Tap Out
When a player has lost all their chips or money and prepares to leave the table.
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FAQ
1. What Is 21 Called in Blackjack?
A 21 consisting of two cards (Ace + 10-point card) is referred to as a "blackjack." On the other hand, a total of 21 is just called 21 but will not be considered a blackjack to pay out.
2. Why Never Split 10s?
Splitting 10s is not advisable because a 20 is a good hand, with the likelihood of winning being high. Splitting could result in two weak hands and diminish your overall potential.
3. How to Play Blackjack Better?
To improve in blackjack is to master the basic strategy, become familiar with critical blackjack terminology, keep your bankroll, and avoid making emotional decisions. Blackjack lingo and terminology knowledge may allow you to read the game more effectively and make smarter table moves.
