Blackjack Glossary
Complete blackjack terminology from basic gameplay to advanced strategy. Master these terms to understand the game and play confidently at any casino.
Player Actions
The moves you can make during a hand of blackjack.
Hit
Request another card to increase your hand total closer to 21.
Stand
Keep your current hand and end your turn without taking more cards.
Split
Divide a pair into two separate hands, each with its own bet.
Double Down
Double your bet and receive exactly one more card.
Surrender
Give up half your bet and forfeit the hand before playing.
Hand Types
Different types of hands and outcomes in blackjack.
Blackjack
An Ace plus a 10-value card—the best hand, paying 3:2.
Hard Hand
A hand without an Ace, or where the Ace must count as 1.
Soft Hand
A hand with an Ace counting as 11 without busting.
Bust
Going over 21—an automatic loss.
Push
A tie between player and dealer—your bet is returned.
Pair
Two cards of equal value that can be split.
Betting Terms
Money-related terms and side bets.
Strategy Concepts
Key concepts for playing smart blackjack.
Basic Strategy
The mathematically optimal way to play every blackjack hand.
House Edge
The mathematical advantage the casino has over players.
Card Counting
A strategy that tracks high vs. low cards remaining in the deck.
Running Count
The cumulative count of cards as they're dealt.
True Count
Running count adjusted for decks remaining.
Card Terms
Terminology for the cards in play.
Table & Equipment
Physical elements of the blackjack table.
Game Rules & Variations
Common rule variations that affect strategy and house edge.
Ready to put these terms into practice? Try our free online training app to master basic strategy, or check out the strategy charts for a complete reference.