Live Blackjack Lingo: Alternative Names & Terms

Live blackjack is one of the most well-known casino games in the world, with a straightforward objective: get closer to 21 than the dealer without going over. But while the rules may be clear, the terminology can sometimes be less so.  

From alternative names to table-specific slang, blackjack has developed a wide range of terms over the years. This guide breaks down the key phrases you're likely to encounter when playing land-based or live online blackjack games. 

What Is Blackjack Also Known As?

Although blackjack is the name most commonly used today, it hasn't always been that way. Originally known as Twenty-One, the game evolved over time, with different regions and casinos introducing their own names and variations. 

• Twenty-One - The original name for the game, still used by some players. 
• Pontoon - A British variation of blackjack with different rules, including terminology like "twist" (hit) and "stick" (stand). 
• Vingt-et-Un - French for "twenty-one," this is where the game's roots trace back to. 
• Snapper - A less common slang term for a natural blackjack, used in some regions. 

These alternative names all relate to the same core concept: aiming for a total of 21 without going over.

Common Terms Used in Blackjack

Understanding standard blackjack terms can help you know how to play blackjack online confidently. Here are some of the most frequently used terms on the table during live blackjack games: 

Hit

To request another card. You "hit" when you believe another card will improve your hand without causing a bust. 

Stand 

To stay with your current hand and take no more cards. Some players may use the term "stay" or "stick," depending on where they're playing. 

Bust 

When your hand exceeds 21, it's called a bust. This results in an automatic loss, regardless of the dealer's hand. 

Push

If both the player and the dealer have hands with equal value, the result is a push. In this case, the player’s original bet is returned. 

Strategic Terms

Blackjack also includes terms used when making specific decisions during gameplay: 

Double Down

To double your initial bet in exchange for one additional card. This is typically done when the player's hand is strong enough to risk a higher stake, often with a total of 10 or 11. Want to improve your strategy even further? Check how to win at online blackjack for more insights on how to approach each hand. 

Split

If your starting hand contains two cards of the same value, you can split them into two separate hands. This requires placing an additional bet equal to the original. 

Surrender

In some blackjack variants, you may have the option to surrender your hand and lose only half your bet. This is usually done when the dealer shows a particularly strong card. 

Card Descriptions and Hand Types

Understanding how different cards and hand types work is essential for making informed decisions during play: 

Face Card 

Any Jack, Queen or King - each worth 10 points. 

Ace 

A unique card that can be worth either 1 or 11, depending on the hand. 

Soft Hand 

A hand that includes an Ace counted as 11. For example, Ace and 6 is a soft 17. 

Hard Hand 

A hand where either there is no Ace or the Ace must be counted as 1 to avoid going over 21. 

Natural 

A two-card hand totaling 21; an Ace plus a 10-point card (10, Jack, Queen, or King). Also referred to as a "blackjack." 

Dealer-Specific Terms

These terms relate to the dealer’s role in the game, including how their cards are dealt and revealed: 

Upcard 

The dealer's visible card. This can influence player decisions based on whether the card is considered strong (such as a 10 or Ace) or weak (like a 4 or 5). 

Hole Card 

The dealer's hidden card, only revealed after all player decisions are made. 

Peek 

In games where the dealer's upcard is an Ace or 10-point card, they may check (or "peek") at the hole card to see if they have a blackjack before the round continues. 

If you're ready to put your knowledge into practice, explore some of our Red Hot Blackjack Tables and see where your next game could take you. 

Table Position and Game Flow Terms

This covers terms related to where you sit at the table and how the game progresses from one player to the next: 

Shoe 

A device used to hold multiple decks of cards and deal them during gameplay. Most blackjack games now use shoes rather than hand-dealing. 

Anchor 

The last seat on the dealer's right-hand side, often referred to as the anchor position. This player acts last before the dealer reveals their hand. 

Stiff Hand 

A hand that is at risk of going bust with just one more card - typically a total of 12 to 16. 

Charlie Rule 

A rule used in some blackjack variants. For example, a Five Card Charlie means that if a player reaches five cards without going over 21, they automatically win the hand, regardless of the dealer’s outcome. 

Less Common Slang

Some terms are heard more often in casual conversation between experienced players or certain regions: 

• Colour Up - Exchanging small denomination chips for larger ones, often done when leaving the table. 
• Cold Deck - A term used when the cards seem to consistently produce unfavourable results. 
• Hot Shoe - The opposite of a cold deck, where the cards appear to be favouring the players. 

These expressions aren't part of the official game, but you may find them in casual play or game chat. 

Blackjack has remained one of the most popular card games in both land-based and online casinos, and the terminology used around the game is part of what makes it stand out. Whether it's understanding what a soft hand is or recognising the difference between a hit and a double down, being familiar with the lingo can help you play with greater confidence. 

At Virgin Games, we are serious about play. That means offering not only a wide range of thrilling casino games, but also supporting players with clear, helpful information. getting to grips with the rules of blackjack is a great place to begin.

Play thrilling blackjack and top online casino games at Virgin Games. Join today and experience gaming the way it's meant to be - secure, seamless, and made for real players.

 All offers mentioned correct at the time of writing but may be subject to change.