Roulette Lexicon

Although roulette is fairly simple to pick up, it is helpful to become familiar with the various terms, expressions, abbreviations, and region-specific words associated with the game. This glossary covers the essential English terminology you will encounter at most tables. We have omitted the French terms, as these generally appear only on French roulette tables and are direct translations of existing terms in English. Players need not worry about using French terms, even when joining a French roulette table; croupiers are trained to understand and accommodate English speakers. Casinos welcome everyone, regardless of background or first language. With that in mind, here is your up-to-date reference for understanding roulette in 2025.

American Wheel

The American wheel is distinctive to American Roulette. This version is easy to recognise by the presence of two green pockets, a zero (“0”) and a double zero (“00”). Because the odds are less favourable to players than on European or French wheels, many recommend opting for those alternatives whenever possible.

Biased Wheel

In the past, some players attempted to exploit biased wheels, where certain numbers occurred more often due to imperfections. By tracking outcomes, individuals managed to win considerable sums when these wheels went undetected. Today, casinos closely monitor their equipment and outcomes to ensure fairness, making the occurrence of biased wheels extremely rare in modern venues.

Boule

Boule is a simplified version of roulette, encountered occasionally in online platforms as well as some land-based gambling locations. It features fewer numbers and combinations, leading to quicker rounds with straightforward rules.

Call bets

Call bets refer to specific wagers announced verbally rather than physically placing chips on the layout. The croupier acknowledges and records the desired combination and stake. While these used to be common, most venues have moved away from call bets for clarity and security, especially in online settings.

Chips

Chips are the standard units used for play in any casino game. These easily distinguishable plastic tokens represent different values, simplifying both betting and payouts for players and staff.

Croupier

The croupier is the official facilitating the game at the table. Responsible for accepting bets, operating the wheel, and handling payouts, croupiers maintain a neutral position, ensuring fair play and efficient game flow. Their training also includes customer service skills, helping create an inviting atmosphere for everyone.

En prison

Some casinos offer the En Prison rule on even-money outside bets. If the ball lands on zero, you may leave your original stake for the next round. Should your bet lose on the following spin, the stake is forfeited.

European Wheel

This is the most common format worldwide. The European wheel features one single zero pocket, offering better odds than the American version and remaining the preferred choice for many players today.

Ficheur

A ficheur is a device used to count casino chips before they are exchanged for cash. It remains a feature in some land-based casinos, providing quick and accurate chip valuation before payout.

High or low bet

A high or low bet is an even-money wager placed on either the first 18 (low) or the last 18 (high) numbers on the roulette board, excluding zero.

Inside bets

Inside bets include all wagers made directly on individual numbers or specific groups inside the main section of the betting layout. Examples are straight-up, split, street, and corner bets.

Marker

The marker is a small object the croupier uses to identify the winning number after each spin. This allows all players at the table to easily see the outcome, no matter their position.

Outside bet

Outside bets refer to wagers on broader groupings found on the outer part of the betting area. These cover options like red or black, odd or even, and high or low, typically offering even-money payouts.

Payout

The payout is the amount won from a successful bet, according to the odds associated with the particular wager placed.

Pockets

Pockets are the individual slots on the roulette wheel where the ball can land. Each pocket corresponds to a unique number and colour, determining the outcome of each spin.

Split bet

A split bet involves placing a chip on the line between two adjacent numbers, allowing you to cover both numbers with a single wager.

Street bet

A street bet is placed on the outer edge of a row, covering three consecutive numbers in a horizontal line on the betting table.

Last updated in 2025 (English UK)