A Look at the Most Important Blackjack Terms
Blackjack is one of the oldest, and most popular card games in the world. The game has enamored gamblers since the Medieval ages, in one way or another. Though its modern rules were established in 1888 in France, the game’s predecessor, Vingt Un, dates back to the 17th century.
Why Blackjack is Popular
The reason blackjack survives to this day, and is one of the most popular games of all time, is that it is perfect for players of all experience levels. The advantageous player odds make for a great introduction to newbies, the simple strategizing is great for intermediate players, and pros can enjoy learning how to card count to subvert the game.
Its popularity is also the reason the game has spread to the iGaming sector. It is hard to find a website nowadays that does not feature blackjack in some for. If you want to give it a go, click here for the digital version of one of the casino’s greatest games. However, if you are a newbie, perhaps reading up on some of the most important terms in the game may help you to get started.
Hit
You sit down at the blackjack table, and the dealer passes you two cards. You know the goal of the game is to reach 21, but the two cards you’ve been dealt are just not enough. You need one more card to get closer.
In blackjack, players that want to draw another card ask the dealer for a “hit.” Anyone who has enjoyed a gambling film has almost certainly heard the phrase “hit me.” This phrase comes from blackjack, and it simply means “give me another card.”
Stand
Let us once again imagine that you’ve come to a blackjack table. This time, however, the dealer has given you a pair of tens. That is as great a score as you can get without getting 21. Another card might ruin it all.
This is when you ask to “stand.” In blackjack terms, “to stand” simply means that you do not wish to draw any more cards. You are perfectly happy with what you’ve built up, and are now ready to reveal your hand to the dealer.
Double Down
Once again, the dealer has given you two cards, but, you are short of the 21 score. Still, you are confident that, with the next card, you will get a pretty big boost. If you win it all, you might take home a big reward. Maybe even double your money.
So, you double down. Basically, you double your wager, draw one more card, and that is that. After you’ve decided to double down, you can’t get any more cards. Which means, this is a risky play for people who enjoy high-risk and high-reward gameplay.
Just remember, the term double down is so popular that it has entered popular parlance. But, also remember that when people use it colloquially they are referring to a person who is stubbornly holding on to an opinion that is most likely wrong.
