Come-Out Roll
The initial roll at the start of a new round in craps. The come-out roll establishes the point and determines whether certain bets win or lose immediately. Rolling 7 or 11 wins pass line bets, while 2, 3, or 12 (craps) loses them.
Craps Dice Probability Glossary
Essential terms and concepts for understanding craps dice throws, betting odds, and table etiquette
Understanding Craps Terminology
Mastering the language of craps is fundamental to becoming a knowledgeable player. This glossary provides clear definitions of essential terms and concepts that will enhance your understanding of dice probability, betting mechanics, and proper table conduct. Whether you're learning about the come-out roll or understanding true odds, these explanations will build your foundation in the game of craps.
Key Craps Terms
Point
The number established on the come-out roll (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10). Once a point is established, the shooter continues rolling until they either repeat the point (winning pass line bets) or roll a 7 (losing pass line bets and ending the round).
Snake Eyes
Rolling a total of 2 (one pip on each die). This is one of the losing outcomes on the come-out roll, also known as "craps." Snake eyes is the lowest possible roll and contributes to the house edge in certain betting scenarios.
Boxcars
Rolling a total of 12 (six pips on each die). Boxcars is the highest possible roll and loses on the come-out roll for pass line bets. The term derives from the resemblance of the six-dot faces to railroad boxcars.
Natural
Rolling 7 or 11 on the come-out roll. A natural is an immediate win for pass line bets and an immediate loss for don't pass bets. Understanding naturals is crucial for basic craps probability and betting decisions.
Craps
Rolling 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll. These outcomes lose for pass line bets and win for don't pass bets. The term "craps" may derive from the French word for the number two, reflecting the game's historical origins.
Pass Line Bet
The fundamental wager in craps where players bet that the shooter will win. Pass line bets win on naturals (7 or 11) on the come-out roll and win when the point is repeated before a 7 is rolled during the point phase.
Don't Pass Bet
The opposite of a pass line bet. Don't pass bettors win on craps (2, 3, or 12) on the come-out roll and win when a 7 is rolled before the point is repeated. This bet has slightly better odds mathematically.
True Odds
The actual mathematical probability of an outcome occurring, without house edge. Understanding true odds allows you to evaluate whether a bet offers fair value. In craps, certain proposition bets have true odds significantly better than their payout ratios.
Stickman
The casino employee positioned at the center of the craps table who controls the dice, announces outcomes, and manages certain bets. The stickman plays a crucial role in maintaining game flow and enforcing table etiquette and rules.
Boxman
The casino supervisor seated behind the chips who oversees the game's integrity, disputes, and large payouts. The boxman ensures fair play and protects the casino's interests while maintaining professional standards.
Seven-Out
Rolling a 7 after the point has been established. This ends the shooter's turn and results in pass line bets losing while don't pass bets win. The seven-out is one of the most consequential rolls in craps probability.
Table Etiquette Terms
Hot Shooter
A shooter who is establishing and making points successfully with extended rolls. When a shooter is hot, the table generates excitement and winning opportunities for players betting on pass line outcomes and point bets.
Cold Table
A craps table where shooters are frequently failing to establish points or are seven-ing out quickly. A cold table favors don't pass bettors and creates a different betting dynamic throughout the session.
Press
To increase a bet, typically doubling it, using winnings from the previous roll. Players press bets strategically to capitalize on momentum, though this increases risk during hot streaks at the craps table.
Taking Odds
Making an additional bet behind a pass line or don't pass bet at true odds. Taking odds is considered one of the smartest bets available in craps as it reduces the overall house edge on your combined wagers.
{{ICON_COINS}} Betting and Probability Concepts
Understanding betting terminology and probability concepts helps players make informed decisions. Key concepts include house edge (the casino's mathematical advantage), variance (the fluctuation of results), and expected value (the average outcome over time). Responsible players study these concepts to make educated wagers and maintain realistic expectations about game outcomes.
The mathematics of craps involves calculating the probability