Zane | May 10, 2023 | Updated on: February 18th, 2025
Craps is a fast-paced casino game with its own unique terminology and jargon. Whether you are new to the game or have played before, knowing these craps terms will help you play with confidence.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ Common craps terms and their definitions.
✔ Essential betting terms used at the craps table.
✔ Slang and phrases used by craps players and dealers.
If you’re new to craps, this craps glossary will help you understand the game better and play like a pro.
👉 Want to learn the basics first? Check out How to Play Craps.
1. General Craps Terms
Bankroll
The total amount of money a player has set aside for gambling.
Boxman
The casino employee who supervises the craps table and manages chips.
Come-Out Roll
The first roll of the dice in a new round, determining the point number or an instant win/loss.
Dealer
The person responsible for handling bets and payouts at the craps table.
Dice Control
An unproven theory that skilled players can influence dice outcomes with controlled throws.
House Edge
The mathematical advantage that the casino has over the player. In craps, the house edge varies depending on the type of bet.
2. Craps Betting Terms
Pass Line Bet
A basic bet where players win on a 7 or 11 and lose on 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll. If a point is set, the shooter must roll the point before rolling a 7 to win.
👉 Best for beginners. Learn more in Craps Strategy.
Don’t Pass Bet
The opposite of the Pass Line Bet. Players win on 2 or 3, lose on 7 or 11, and push on 12. After a point is set, they win if a 7 is rolled before the point.
Come Bet
Similar to the Pass Line Bet, but placed after a point is established.
Don’t Come Bet
Similar to the Don’t Pass Bet, but placed after the point is set.
Odds Bet
An additional bet placed behind the Pass, Don’t Pass, Come, or Don’t Come Bets. This bet has zero house edge and pays true odds.
👉 Best bet in craps! Learn why in Craps Strategy.
Field Bet
A one-roll bet that wins on 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, and 12 and loses on 5, 6, 7, or 8. The payout varies depending on the number rolled.
Place Bet
A bet on 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 that wins if that number is rolled before a 7.
Hard Way Bet
A bet that a 4, 6, 8, or 10 will be rolled as doubles (e.g., two 3s for a hard 6) before a 7 or an easier combination.
Proposition Bets
One-roll bets placed in the center of the table, usually with a high house edge.
👉 Avoid these bets! Learn why in Craps Strategy.
3. Craps Dice Terms
Shooter
The player rolling the dice.
Seven Out
When the shooter rolls a 7 before rolling the point number, ending their turn.
Snake Eyes
A roll of double 1s (2).
Boxcars
A roll of double 6s (12), also called Midnight.
Natural
A roll of 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, resulting in an instant win for Pass Line Bets.
Yo (Yo-Leven)
A roll of 11 (to avoid confusion with 7, dealers call it “Yo”).
4. Slang & Casino Lingo in Craps
Bones
A slang term for dice.
Cold Table
A table where players are frequently losing.
Hot Table
A table where shooters are winning consistently.
Press a Bet
Doubling your bet after a win.
Rail
The area of the craps table where players keep their chips.
The Pit
The casino area where table games, including craps, are played.
5. Conclusion & Next Steps
Understanding these craps terms will help you feel more confident at the table.
✔ Learn the essential betting terms and their meanings.
✔ Understand dice roll terminology to keep up with the game.
✔ Avoid bad bets by recognizing high house-edge options.
Want to Learn More? Check Out These Guides:
👉 How to Play Craps – Step-by-step guide to the game rules.
👉 Craps Strategy – Learn how to bet smart and win more.
Start playing smarter craps today with these essential terms!
Final Thoughts on Craps Glossary
This craps glossary provides the most important craps definitions to help you understand the game. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, knowing these craps terms will make your experience more fun and rewarding.
📢 Next Step: Learn Craps Strategy to improve your game!