Craps Glossary

Essential Terms, Probability Concepts, and Table Terminology Explained

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Understanding Craps Terminology

Come Out Roll

The first roll of a new round in craps. This roll establishes the point number. If the shooter rolls 7 or 11, pass line bettors win immediately. Rolling 2, 3, or 12 (called "craps") results in an immediate loss for pass line bets. Any other number becomes the point.

Point

A number established on the come-out roll (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10). Once a point is set, the shooter continues rolling until either rolling the point number again (winning for pass line bettors) or rolling a 7 (losing for pass line bettors, called "sevening out").

Seven Out

When a 7 is rolled after a point has been established. This ends the shooter's turn and results in losses for pass line bets. However, don't pass bettors win when a seven out occurs. The dice pass to the next shooter.

Pass Line Bet

One of the most fundamental wagers in craps. Pass line bettors win if the come-out roll is 7 or 11, lose if it's 2, 3, or 12, or win if the established point is rolled before a 7. This bet typically has a 1.4% house edge.

Don't Pass Bet

The opposite of a pass line bet. Don't pass bettors win on come-out rolls of 2 or 3, lose on 7 or 11, and win if 7 is rolled before the point number. The house edge is similar to pass line bets at approximately 1.4%.

Odds Bet

A supplementary bet made after the point is established. This bet has no house edge (true odds payout). Players can bet additional money that the point will be rolled before a 7. This significantly improves overall expected value on the original pass or don't pass bet.

Snake Eyes

A roll of two ones (total of 2). In craps, rolling snake eyes on the come-out roll results in an immediate loss for pass line bettors. This term originated from the appearance of the dice faces resembling snake eyes.

Boxcars

A roll of two sixes (total of 12). On the come-out roll, boxcars results in a loss for pass line bettors but a win for don't pass bettors, with the exception that it pushes (ties) on don't pass bets. The term refers to the appearance of railroad boxcars.

Probability of Rolling Numbers

Each two-dice combination has specific probability. 7 is the most likely roll (6 ways to make it). Numbers 6 and 8 have 5 ways each. 5 and 9 have 4 ways each. 4 and 10 have 3 ways each. 2, 3, 11, and 12 have 1-2 ways. Understanding these probabilities is crucial for informed betting decisions.

House Edge Concept

The mathematical advantage the casino maintains over players. In craps, pass/don't pass bets have approximately 1.4% house edge, while odds bets have 0% edge. The house edge varies by bet type. More informed bets typically offer better odds for players.

Table Etiquette

Proper craps protocol includes: using one hand to throw dice, hitting back wall, respecting other players' space, not touching the dice when not shooting, and following dealer instructions. Never blame other players for outcomes. Maintain respectful communication and follow house rules.

Stickman Role

The dealer positioned in the middle of the craps table who controls the dice, manages proposition bets, and announces outcomes. The stickman uses a stick to move dice and maintains game flow. Understanding their role helps players follow game progression and place bets appropriately.

Probability Reference Guide

Understanding dice probability is fundamental to playing craps strategically. When rolling two six-sided dice, there are 36 possible combinations. The probability of rolling any specific total varies significantly. The number 7 is statistically the most probable outcome, occurring in 6 of the 36 possible combinations (16.67% probability). This mathematical fact influences all craps betting strategies.

Players should understand that certain numbers are harder to roll than others. For example, rolling a 2 or 12 has only a 2.78% probability each, while rolling a 6 or 8 has a 13.89% probability each. These differences directly affect betting odds. Knowledgeable players focus on bets with the lowest house edge, particularly pass/don't pass bets combined with odds bets.

The true odds of rolling the point before rolling a 7 vary by point number. For a point of 4 or 10, the true odds are 2 to 1. For 5 or 9, they are 3 to 2. For 6 or 8, they are 6 to 5. Casinos typically offer full odds on supplementary bets, meaning payouts match the true probability, eliminating the house edge on these additional wagers.

Responsible Gaming Principles

Responsible gaming means understanding that casino games are entertainment with inherent risk. While craps offers some of the best odds in the casino, the house always maintains a mathematical advantage over time. Set strict budget limits before playing and never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.

Understanding probability and odds helps players make informed decisions, but knowledge does not change mathematical reality. The house edge ensures that over extended play, the casino profits and players lose on average. Gambling should never be viewed as a money-making