Blackjack Dictionary

Blackjack is one of the most widely played casino card games around the globe. Recognised for its engaging gameplay, the game continues to attract players from all backgrounds.

A favourite among casino enthusiasts

Often referred to as 21, Blackjack’s appeal lies in its straightforward rules and the possibility for players to outplay the dealer with a mix of skill and fortune. The game has developed an intriguing reputation, especially because some players try to gain an advantage by counting cards. Card counting is now prohibited in casinos worldwide, and those suspected of using such strategies are removed from the premises.

The main objective is simple—reach a total of 21 before the dealer does, but not exceed that number. Blackjack stands out because players compete directly with the dealer instead of playing against each other. In this way, the challenge is set against the house itself.

Historically, the earliest mention of Blackjack can be found in the Spanish novel Don Quixote by Cervantes. From its literary origins to modern-day casinos, Blackjack has continued to captivate those eager to test their strategy against the dealer.

Blackjack definitions

Players new to Blackjack might find some jargon unfamiliar. To help demystify the terminology, we have compiled essential terms and definitions that will support you in understanding the game better:

Active Player The individual actively participating in the current round at the table, playing directly against the dealer. Others may be present around the table without joining in the play.

Banker The person responsible for recording actions of the active player at the table.

Bankroll The total value of chips held by an active player during play.

Basic Strategy The recommended decisions for a player to optimise their chances against the dealer. Basic strategy is based on statistics concerning the visible cards of both player and dealer.

Bet Spread The ratio between the maximum and minimum bet sizes allowed at the table. For example, a table with a maximum bet of £100 and a minimum bet of £10 has a 10 to 1 bet spread.

Betting Limit The allowed range for bets during a single round. Players must wager amounts within these limits.

Blackjack A hand totalling exactly 21 points with the initial two cards—a combination of an Ace and a ten-value card.

Buck A bet with a value of £100.

Bust When a player’s hand exceeds 21 points, resulting in a loss to the dealer.

Card Weight The assigned value given to face cards and other cards in certain counting systems, assisting players in tracking which cards remain in the deck. Common values are small integers like -1 or +1.

Case Refers to the last card of a particular rank remaining in the deck.

Chips Tokens representing cash used by players to place their bets at the table.

Count An estimate, based on cards already dealt, regarding how favourable the remaining deck may be for achieving Blackjack. This can guide players in decision-making.

Crack When a player wins against a notably strong hand held by the dealer.

Deal The action of distributing cards to players and the dealer.

Dime Refers to a total of £1,000.

Discard Tray The container placed by the dealer to the right, where all used or discarded cards are kept until the next shuffle.

Double Down A move where a player can decide to double their original bet in exchange for receiving just one more card, ending their turn afterward.

Down Card A card dealt face down, hidden from other players at the table.

Even Money When the dealer’s visible card is an Ace, the player is offered a payout of 1:1 if they have a Blackjack, protecting their win against a possible dealer Blackjack.

First Base The seat immediately to the dealer’s left, which receives the first card when dealing begins.

Flat Bet Consistently betting the same amount over multiple rounds.

Hard Hand A hand valued at 11 or more that does not include an Ace counted as 11.

Hit The request for the dealer to deal another card.

Hole Card The dealer’s card placed face down and only revealed at the end of the round.

Natural Another term for a two-card 21, also known as Blackjack.

Pat Hand A hand to the value of 17 or more, often considered strong enough not to take further cards.

• Blackjack online
• Count cards in blackjack
• Cheating in Blackjack
• Books about blackjack
• The MIT blackjack team

Last updated: 2025