Blackjack Terminology

When you hit the Blackjack table, make sure you know all phrases and jargon used around it. Using the wrong language can get really embarrassing and even hurt your chances to win. Use our terminology section to make sure you know it all before you start playing.

21: another name for the game of Blackjack.

Blackjack/natural: the best hand value - combination of ACE and 10 value card resulting in a 21 total.

Face cards: Jack, Queen, King.

Up cards: dealt facing up.

Hole cards: dealt facing down.

Bust/Break: surpassing 21 with your cards.

HIT/DRAW: ask for 1 additional card.

STAND: refuse additional cards.

DOUBLE DOWN: double the original bet. must get 1 and only 1 additional card.

SPLIT: Sperate your two identical cards into two hands.

SURRENDER: renounce your hand, by paying half the original bet.

PUSH: a tie between the player and the dealer.

Insurance: a side bet, offered when the dealer’s up card is an ACE. Bet pays 3:2 if the dealer gets a Blackjack.

Basic strategy: a predetermined set of dealer’s/player’s hands scenarios and players optimal decisions, aimed at minimizing the casino edge.

Shoe: the card dispenser for multiple decks, aimed at assisting the dealing of cards.

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