Blackjack Terminology
While Blackjack is a game for anyone and everyone and is widely considered to be the most popular casino card game, both online and in the world. Before you start playing in a casino though you should familiarise yourself with some of the terminology used to describe the game. There are quite a few words it would be helpful to learn if you are keen on playing to win. Here Casino Pros offers a list of common Blackjack terminology so you can have the best gaming experience and become an expert player.
Common Blackjack Terminology
Bankroll – This is the amount of money you have to bet with.
Blackjack – A winning hand of 21 on two original cards.
Breaking Hand – A hand that goes over 21 with one card.
Bust – To go over 21, this is a loss.
Deal – When the cards are handed out.
Double Down – This is an option to double your original bet, but only getting a one-card hit. This is a good move if you are confident you will win the round.
Draw – To add more cards to your hand.
Face Cards – Jacks, Queens and Kings.
Hit – To ask for another card from the dealer.
Hole Card – A card that is dealt face down.
House Edge – The natural advantage the casino has over a player. Using a good Blackjack strategy can lower the house edge.
Insurance – Players can take insurance by betting half of their original bet.
Natural – When a two-card hand equals exactly 21.
Push – When the player and the dealer has a tie – i.e. the exact same total.
Soft 17 – A hand containing an Ace and any card between 2 and 7.
Soft Hand – Splitting a two-card hand and playing them separately.
Split – Any two cards of the same value can be split when the cards are dealt.
Standing Hand – A hand containing 17 or more. A player will choose to stand because you will likely get a hand over 21 if you choose another card.
Stand/Stay – Not accepting any more cards in case of going bust.
Surrender – This is when a player folds his hand after the first two cards are dealt.
Stiff Hand – A hand with cards with a total of between 12 and 16.