Sports Betting Terms: Glossary of Lingo for New Bettors to Know

A

Accumulator (Acca): Known commonly as a parlay bet in North America, an accumulator wager combines multiple selections into one single bet, often used in sports like football, tennis, or horse racing. All selections must be successful for the bet to win, which makes it riskier but offers higher rewards.

Across the Board: A type of bet commonly used in horse racing, where a bettor places three separate wagers on a horse to win, place, and show. If the horse finishes in any of these positions, the bettor wins accordingly.

Action: This term is a general reference to having money wagered on an event or game. For example, if a bettor has placed a bet on a particular game, they have "action" on that game. The term can also refer to the total volume of bets placed on an event. Bookmakers might also say a game has "no action" if bets are voided for any reason.

Action Junkie: This term is used to describe a bettor who frequently places bets across various events, often driven by the excitement of betting rather than calculated analysis. Action junkies are known for constantly needing "action" in the form of active wagers.

Agent: in sports betting, an "agent" acts as a middleman between bettors and bookmakers, managing bets, collecting money, and distributing winnings. Agents often work for a commission and are more common in unregulated or illegal betting markets.

Against the Box: This refers to betting against the favorite in a particular event. Bettors who bet "against the box" are often looking to back the underdog or less favored outcomes, which may offer more lucrative odds.

Against the Spread (ATS): Spread betting is a type of wager where the bettor wagers on a team not just to win the game but to cover the point spread. For example, if a football team is favored to win by 7 points, they must win by more than that for the bet to win.

All-In: In Ante-Post betting, "all-in" refers to the fact that once a bet is placed, there are no refunds if the participant does not compete. For example, if you bet on a horse in an Ante-Post market and the horse is withdrawn from the race, you do not receive your stake back.

Alternate or Alternative Line: A different point spread or total than the original offered by the sportsbook. Bettors can choose more favorable or riskier lines, adjusting potential payouts depending on the odds of the alternate line.

American Odds: A way of displaying betting odds commonly used in the United States. American odds are presented as either a positive (+) or negative (-) number. Positive odds (e.g., +200) show how much profit you will make on a $100 bet, while negative odds (e.g., -150) indicate how much you need to bet to win $100.

Angle: A betting strategy that aims to take advantage of certain information or trends to increase the chances of winning. An angle can be based on statistical analysis, recent team performance, weather conditions, or insider information.

Ante-Post: These are bets placed well in advance of the event, usually found in horse racing or major sporting events. Ante-Post betting often offers better odds because there are more unknowns (such as injuries or withdrawals). However, the risk is higher since these bets usually do not offer refunds if your selection does not participate.

Any to Come (ATC): A type of bet where part of the winnings from one wager are automatically used to place another bet. This is often seen in horse racing, where a bettor’s winnings from one race are reinvested into subsequent races.

Anytime Props: A popular bet where the bettor wagers on a specific player to score (usually a goal, touchdown or home run) at any point during the match. This type of bet gives more flexibility than first or last prop bets because the player can score at any time for the bet to be successful.

Arbitrage Betting: A strategy where a bettor places bets on all possible outcomes of an event at different bookmakers to guarantee a profit. This works when there are discrepancies in the odds offered by different bookies, allowing the bettor to cover all potential outcomes (such as win, lose, or draw) and make a profit regardless of the result.

Asian Handicap: A form of betting primarily used in soccer, it aims to eliminate the possibility of a draw by giving one team a handicap, usually in the form of goals (e.g., +0.5, +1). This type of bet offers two possible outcomes instead of the typical three. if a team is given a handicap of -1, they must win by more than one goal for the bet to pay out.

At the Post: A term used in horse racing that signifies the horses are lining up at the starting point and are about to begin the race. It refers to the final moments before the race officially starts, with the horses and jockeys waiting for the signal to go.

Auto-Cash Out: A feature offered by some online bookmakers where a bet is automatically cashed out once it reaches a predetermined profit or loss value. This allows bettors to secure a profit or minimize losses without having to monitor the game in real-time.

B

Back: To "back" means to bet on a selection to win. For example, in horse racing, a bettor may back a particular horse, meaning they are betting on that horse to win the race. The opposite of backing is laying (betting against an outcome).

Backdoor Cover: This occurs when an underdog team scores late in a game to cover the point spread, often in situations where the outcome is already decided. This late score benefits bettors who backed the underdog, even though it doesn’t affect the actual game result.

Bad Beat: A term used to describe an unfortunate or unlucky loss, especially when a bet looked like it was going to win but ended up losing in the last moments. Bad beats are common in poker and sports betting, where unpredictable events in the final stages can turn a winning bet into a losing one.

Bands: A range of outcomes within set intervals, often seen in markets like margin of victory or total points. Instead of wagering on a specific result, bettors predict that the final outcome will fall within a given range, like 11-20 points.

Banker: A banker bet is a selection that a bettor is highly confident will win. It is often used in accumulator bets, where the bettor relies on this one "sure thing" to increase the overall odds. Bankers are usually short-priced favorites and considered very likely to win.

Bankroll: This refers to the total amount of money a bettor has set aside specifically for betting. Proper bankroll management is crucial for successful betting, as it helps prevent overspending and ensures that a bettor doesn’t risk more than they can afford to lose. Bettors often allocate a fixed percentage of their bankroll to each bet to limit risk.

Beard: A person who places bets on behalf of another bettor in order to hide the real identity of the bettor. This is usually done to avoid suspicion, such as when a professional bettor has been banned by bookmakers or when someone wants to avoid betting limits.

Bet: A wager placed on the outcome of an event. Bettors risk money on a predicted outcome, and if the prediction is correct, they receive a payout based on the odds. There are various types of bets, including straight bets, parlays, and exotic wagers, each with different rules and payout structures.

Bettor: A person who places a bet. Bettors can wager on a wide range of events, including sports, politics, and entertainment. Professional bettors rely on extensive research, statistics, and betting strategies to make informed wagers, while casual bettors may wager for fun or based on personal preferences.

Betting Exchange: A platform that allows bettors to place bets against each other rather than against a bookmaker. Bettors can either "back" an outcome (bet on it to happen) or "lay" an outcome (bet on it not happening). The exchange itself takes a small commission from the winning bets, but odds are often better due to competition between bettors.

Betting Odds: The likelihood of an outcome occurring and determine how much a bettor stands to win. Odds are usually displayed in fractional (e.g., 5/1), decimal (e.g., 6.00), or American (e.g., +500) formats. Lower odds indicate a higher probability of the event occurring, while higher odds represent a less likely outcome but a higher potential payout.

Betting Unit: The standard amount of money a bettor wagers per bet. Rather than betting arbitrary amounts, bettors often calculate their wagers in units, usually as a percentage of their bankroll. This helps them manage their funds better and prevents excessive losses during bad betting streaks.

Bet Slip: A bet slip is the form on which a bettor enters their chosen wagers, either online or in person at a bookmaker. The bet slip shows the selections, the amount wagered, and the potential payout based on the odds. Online bet slips automatically calculate payouts and allow for changes before the bet is confirmed.

Bonus: A bet or other enticement given by a bookmaker to entice new customers or reward existing ones. Bonus bets often come with conditions, such as minimum odds or wagering requirements, before winnings can be withdrawn. They are common promotional tools used in the sports betting industry.

Book: The total amount of bets accepted by a bookmaker on a specific event or series of events. The bookmaker's goal is to balance the book so that regardless of the outcome, they make a profit through the built-in margin (the vig or juice). Managing the book involves adjusting the odds to attract bets on either side of an event.

Bookie: Short for bookmaker, a bookie is an individual or company that accepts and pays out bets on sporting and other events according to odds they set. Bookies are responsible for setting odds, taking bets, and ensuring that they balance the action on both sides of a wager to secure their profit.

Boosted Odds: A promotion where the bookmaker offers improved or enhanced odds on a specific event, giving bettors the opportunity to win more than they would under the original odds. This means the payout is higher than it would be without the boost, increasing the potential return if the bet is successful.

Both Teams to Score (BTTS): A popular soccer bet where the bettor wagers that both teams in a match will score at least one goal. The outcome of the match (win, lose, or draw) does not affect this bet; it only matters that each team scores. This bet is appealing because it doesn't depend on the final result, making it popular for matches with strong offensive teams.

Boxed Bet: A boxed bet allows bettors to select multiple horses and bet on them to finish in any order in the top positions. For example, a "trifecta box" means the bettor selects three horses, and as long as those horses finish in the top three (in any order), the bet wins. Boxed bets increase the chance of winning but cost more due to covering multiple combinations.

Brick and Mortar: A term used to describe a physical sportsbook location. Brick and mortar sportsbooks usually operate either as standalone establishments, or within a larger gambling establishment like a casino or racetrack.

Buying Points: A wager in which the bettor pays an additional premium (in the form of worse odds) to improve the point spread in their favor. For example, if a bettor believes a team favored by -7 is only likely to win by 6, he or she might buy points to move the spread to -6, increasing the chances of winning the bet but reducing the payout due to worse odds.

C

Canadian: A type of multiple bet, also known as a Super Yankee, consisting of 26 individual bets on five selections. The bet includes 10 two-leg parlays, 10 three-leg parlays, 5 four-leg parlays, and 1 five-leg parlay. At least two selections must win to generate a return. It's a popular bet for those looking to spread their risk across multiple selections.

Cash Out: A feature offered by many online sportsbooks that allows bettors to settle their bet before the event has finished. Cash out is often used to lock in a profit or minimize a loss. For example, if a bettor's team is leading late in the game but they are unsure if the team will hold on to win, they can cash out early for a guaranteed, though potentially smaller, profit.

Chalk: A term used to describe a favorite in a betting event, typically a team or participant with shorter odds, indicating they are expected to win. The "chalk" refers to the traditional way of listing favorites on a chalkboard in betting shops.

Chalk Eater: A derogatory term for a bettor who only bets on favorites, often implying that they are playing it safe by consistently backing the chalk (favorites), but might not be making the best value bets.

Chase System: A betting strategy where the bettor increases the size of their bet after each loss, with the goal of recovering all previous losses once they win. A popular form of the chase system is the Martingale system, where bettors double their stake after each loss.

Chasing Losses: The act of placing larger or more frequent bets in an attempt to recover money lost in previous bets. This is often seen as a dangerous practice because it can lead to even greater losses as bettors become emotionally driven to "win back" their money rather than making rational, calculated decisions.

Chasing Steam: A term used to describe bettors attempting to follow the momentum of a line or odds that are moving quickly in one direction due to heavy action (bets) on one side. This strategy involves betting on the side that is attracting the most bets, assuming that the "steam" movement indicates inside knowledge or sharp money.

Circled Game: A game where the bookmaker has limited betting action due to uncertainty, such as injuries, weather conditions, or other factors that make it hard to set accurate odds. A circled game usually has lower maximum betting limits and may have fewer betting options.

Closing Line: The final odds or point spread for an event before betting is closed and the event begins. The closing line reflects the most current betting action and adjustments made by the bookmaker based on factors like injuries, weather, or betting volume.

Closing Line Value: The difference between the odds at which you placed a bet and the final odds (the closing line) offered by a bookmaker just before the event begins. The concept of CLV is used to measure whether a bettor has made a good value bet by locking in odds that are more favorable than those available at the close.

Coin Flip: A game, match, or outcome that is seen as having roughly equal chances of going either way, similar to the 50/50 odds of an actual coin flip. Bettors use this term when both sides of a bet seem evenly matched, and the outcome is considered very unpredictable.

Coin Toss Bet: A bet placed on the outcome of a coin toss, often seen in sports like football where the coin toss determines which team starts with possession. Coin toss bets are 50/50 propositions with no skill or analysis involved, often used for fun by bettors looking for immediate action.

Cooler: An individual or situation that is believed to bring bad luck or a cold streak to a bettor, team, or event. In the context of sports betting, a cooler might be someone who, whether by superstition or coincidence, consistently bets on teams or outcomes that end up losing.

Combination Bet: A type of bet that allows a bettor to cover multiple outcomes or selections within one wager. For example, in horse racing, a combination bet might involve selecting three horses and betting on all possible combinations of them finishing first, second, and third. This offers more chances to win but increases the cost of the bet.

Consensus: A summary of the most popular bets placed on an event. The consensus can show the percentage of bets placed on each team or outcome, and it is often used by bettors to gauge public opinion and decide whether to follow the crowd or go against it.

Contrarian Betting: A strategy that involves betting against the public consensus. The idea is that public bettors are often wrong, and by going against the popular side, contrarian bettors can find better value and increase their chances of long-term success. This strategy is often used when the majority of the betting public is heavily backing one side.

Correct Score Bet: A wager on the exact final score of a game or match. Correct score bets are commonly placed in sports like soccer or tennis, and they typically offer higher odds due to the difficulty of predicting the exact result.

Correlation: In sports betting, this refers to the relationship between two bets where the outcome of one bet increases the likelihood of the other. For example, in a football game, betting on both a team's win and the game going over a point total may be correlated.

Cover: A term used in point spread betting, where a team "covers the spread" if they win by more points than the point spread indicates or, in the case of an underdog, if they lose by fewer points than the spread. For example, if a football team is favored by 6 points and wins by 7, they have covered the spread.

Cross-Sport Parlay: A parlay bet featuring selections from different sports. For instance, a bettor might combine a basketball game, a soccer match, and a baseball game in the same parlay. All selections must win for the parlay to pay out.

D

Dead Heat: A situation in which two or more competitors finish a race or event in a tie. In betting, when a dead heat occurs, the payout is typically divided between the winners. For example, if two horses finish in a dead heat for first place, the stake is usually split between them, and the payout is calculated accordingly.

Dead Money: A term used to describe money that is wagered by a player or bettor who is unlikely to win. In sports betting, it can also refer to bets placed by casual or uninformed bettors, which make it easier for sharp (experienced) bettors to find value.

Decimal Odds: A format for displaying odds commonly used in Europe, Canada, and Australia. Decimal odds represent the total payout, including the original stake. For example, if the odds are 3.00, a $10 bet would return $30 ($20 profit plus the $10 stake). Decimal odds are easy to understand as they show the total return for every unit wagered.

Degenerate: Often shortened to "degen", a slang term used to describe a person who bets compulsively or irresponsibly, often without doing proper research or analysis. Degenerate gamblers tend to bet on anything available, seeking action rather than profit, and often chase losses, leading to more reckless behavior.

Deposit Bonus: A type of promotion offered by online bookmakers where they match a percentage of a bettor’s deposit, giving them additional funds to bet with. For example, a 100% deposit bonus would double a bettor’s initial deposit. These bonuses often come with wagering requirements that must be met before any winnings can be withdrawn.

Dime: A slang term for a $1,000 bet, commonly used in American sports betting circles. For example, "I placed a dime on the game" means the bettor wagered $1,000. It’s part of the common vernacular among serious or high-stakes bettors.

Dog: Short for "underdog," this term refers to a team or competitor that is expected to lose a game or event based on the odds. Betting on the dog usually offers higher payouts because the outcome is seen as less likely, but it also comes with greater risk.

Dollar: In betting parlance, "Dollar" refers to a $100 bet. It's often used as shorthand among bettors and bookmakers. For example, saying "two dollars on the spread" means placing a $200 wager on a particular point spread.

Double: A type of accumulator or parlay bet that involves making two selections. Both of those selections must win for the bettor to receive a payout. If either selection loses, the entire bet is lost. Doubles are a simple way to increase potential returns by combining two separate events into one wager.

Double Action: In baseball betting, this refers to a bet that is only valid if the named starting pitchers for both teams actually start the game. If either pitcher does not start, the bet is void and the stake is returned. This bet allows bettors to base their wagers on the strength of the starting pitchers.

Double Chance: A type of soccer bet where the bettor covers two out of three possible outcomes: win, lose, or draw. For example, you can bet on a team to either win or draw the match. This reduces the risk compared to a traditional win-only bet, but the odds are lower because two outcomes are covered.

Double Result: A bet that combines the outcome of the first half and the full-time result in a single wager. This type of bet is common in soccer or basketball. For example, you might bet on a team to be winning at halftime but to draw by full-time. Both halves of the bet must be correct for the wager to win.

Draw: A result in a sporting event where neither team or competitor wins, and the match or game ends in a tie. In many sports, a draw is a potential outcome you can bet on, such as in soccer, where betting on the draw can sometimes offer good value.

Draw Bias: A term used in horse racing to describe how certain starting positions (draws) at a track may give horses an advantage or disadvantage. For example, on some courses, horses drawn on the inside track may have a better chance of winning, while at others, the outside positions may be more favorable.

Draw No Bet: A type of bet commonly placed in soccer where the bettor wagers on a team to win, but if the game ends in a draw, the stake is returned. This is a safer option than a traditional win bet, as it removes the possibility of losing the stake if the game ends in a tie.

Drift: A term used to describe when the odds on a selection lengthen, meaning the chances of the outcome happening are perceived to decrease. For example, if a horse’s odds drift from 4/1 to 6/1, it suggests that the market believes the horse is less likely to win than originally anticipated. Bettors may see drifting odds as an opportunity to bet at better odds.

Dutching: A strategy where a bettor places bets on multiple selections in the same event to ensure a profit if any one of the selections wins. The stakes are calculated so that the profit is the same regardless of which selection wins. Dutching is often used when a bettor believes several outcomes are possible but wants to minimize risk by spreading the bet.

E

Each Way (E/W): A type of bet commonly used in horse racing and other sports with multiple participants. An each-way bet consists of two parts: one part of the bet is placed on the selection to win, and the other part is placed on the selection to place (typically finishing in the top 2, 3, or 4 depending on the event). If the selection wins, both parts of the bet pay out; if the selection only places, the place part pays out at reduced odds.

Earn: The profit a bookmaker or sportsbook makes from bettors over a period of time. It represents the difference between the total amount wagered and the payouts made to winning bettors, essentially the sportsbook’s revenue or margin.

Edge: The advantage that a bettor or bookmaker has over the other. A bettor’s edge is typically based on skill, knowledge, or a strategy that gives them a better chance of winning over the long term. The bookmaker’s edge is built into the odds to ensure they make a profit, also known as the "vig" or "juice."

Escalator Bet: A type of bet that increases in size or payout potential as specific outcomes occur. Escalator bets are typically used in progressive systems, where a bettor increases the size of the next bet following a win or a series of wins.

European Odds: Also called decimal odds, they represent the total payout for a winning bet, including the original stake. They are expressed as a decimal (e.g., 2.50). To calculate the potential return, multiply the stake by the decimal odds.

Even Money: A bet where the potential profit is equal to the amount wagered, meaning the odds are 1:1. In even-money bets, if you wager $100, you would win $100 in profit (plus your original stake) if the bet wins. Even money bets are often seen when the chances of winning are roughly 50/50.

Exact Score Bet: A wager where the bettor must predict the exact final score of a game or match. This type of bet is common in soccer, where bettors try to predict both teams' final scores. Exact score bets usually offer high odds due to the difficulty of correctly predicting an exact outcome.

Exacta: A popular horse racing bet where the bettor must predict the first and second place finishers in the correct order. Exacta bets offer higher payouts than standard win or place bets due to the difficulty of predicting the exact outcome. Some variations include "boxed exacta," where the two horses can finish in either order.

Exchange Betting: A type of wagering where individuals bet against each other rather than against a bookmaker. Bettors can either "back" (bet on a selection to win) or "lay" (bet against it). The betting exchange takes a small commission on the winning bets, but the odds can often be more favorable due to the peer-to-peer nature of the market.

Exotic Bet: Any bet that goes beyond standard win, place, or show bets. Exotic bets can include parlays, teasers, exactas, trifectas, and other multi-outcome wagers. These bets often offer higher payouts but are generally more difficult to win due to the added complexity.

Expected Value (EV): A concept used to calculate the average amount a bettor can expect to win or lose per bet in the long run. Positive expected value (+EV) occurs when the potential payout is greater than the risk, while negative expected value (-EV) means the bet is expected to lose money over time.

Exposure: The total amount of money a bookmaker or bettor stands to lose on a given event. For a bookmaker, exposure refers to the amount they will lose if all bets on a particular outcome are successful. For a bettor, exposure represents the total amount they have risked on bets that are currently unsettled.

Extended Line: In point spread betting, an extended line refers to a line where the spread is adjusted, usually giving the underdog more points or taking points away from the favorite. Bettors who wager on extended lines usually pay a premium or receive reduced payouts to compensate for the increased likelihood of the adjusted outcome.

F

Favorite: The team, horse, or player that is expected to win an event based on the odds. Favorites typically have lower odds, indicating they are more likely to win. Bettors often choose favorites for safer bets, but the payouts are smaller compared to underdog bets.

Favorite: In betting, it refers to every competitor in an event except the one or ones explicitly mentioned. For example, in horse racing, betting on "the field" means betting on any horse other than the favorite. In some markets, it refers to a group of lesser-known or lower-ranked participants combined as a single betting option.

First Half Bet: A bet placed on the outcome of the first half of a game, typically in sports like soccer, basketball, or American football. The wager is settled at halftime based on the score at that point, regardless of the full-time result.

"First" Prop: A popular bet where the bettor predicts which player will record the first score in the match (usually a goal, basket or touchdown). This bet offers attractive odds due to the difficulty of predicting a single player to score first in a game.

Fixed Odds: Betting odds that do not change once the bet is placed. In fixed-odds betting, the bettor locks in the odds at the time of placing the bet, regardless of how the odds fluctuate before the event. This contrasts with pari-mutuel betting, where payouts depend on the total pool of bets placed.

Flash Odds: A promotion by bookmakers where odds on a specific event or outcome are temporarily boosted for a short period. Flash odds are usually time-sensitive and designed to attract quick action from bettors, providing better value than the standard odds.

Flat Betting: Placing the same amount of money on every bet, regardless of odds or perceived confidence. Flat betting is a strategy to manage bankroll and reduce risk by maintaining consistent wager amounts across all bets.

Fold: A term used in accumulator (parlay) betting, where each "fold" represents a selection within the bet. For example, a "four-fold" accumulator means the bettor has made four selections, and all must win for the bet to be successful.

Form: A term used to describe a participant's recent performance, particularly in sports and horse racing. A participant "in form" has been performing well, while one "out of form" has been struggling. Bettors often analyze form to make more informed wagers.

Fractional Odds: A traditional format for displaying odds, most commonly used in the UK and Ireland. Fractional odds show the ratio of profit to the stake. For example, 5/1 means a bettor would win $5 for every $1 wagered, while 1/2 means a bettor would win $1 for every $2 bet.

Futures Bet: A bet placed on an event that will happen in the future, often weeks or months in advance. Examples include betting on the winner of a sports championship, such as the Super Bowl or the World Cup, before the season or tournament starts. Future bets typically offer higher odds because of the uncertainty involved in predicting long-term outcomes.

G

Goal Line: A bet in soccer that is similar to over/under bets in other sports. Bettors wager on whether the total number of goals scored in a game will be over or under the specified goal line. For example, a goal line of 2.5 means the bettor wagers on whether there will be more than (over) or fewer than (under) 2.5 total goals in the game.

Going: A horse racing term that refers to the condition of the racetrack surface. The going can range from firm, good, soft, to heavy, depending on how dry or wet the track is. Bettors use the going to assess which horses might perform better under certain conditions, as some horses run better on firm ground while others excel on softer surfaces.

Goliath: A complex multiple bet consisting of 247 individual wagers across 8 selections. It includes 28 two-leg parlays, 56 three-leg parlays, 70 four-leg parlays, 56 five-leg parlays, 28 six-leg parlays, eight seven-leg parlays, and one eight-leg parlay. A Goliath bet requires at least two selections to win for a payout.

Grand Salami: A bet commonly offered in hockey and baseball that involves wagering on the total number of goals or runs scored in all games on a given day. For example, in hockey, the Grand Salami might be set at 45.5, and bettors wager whether the total number of goals across all games will be over or under that number.

Green Book: A term used in matched betting or arbitrage betting, where a bettor has covered all possible outcomes of an event in such a way that they are guaranteed a profit, regardless of the result. The term comes from the fact that profit is typically highlighted in green on betting exchange platforms.

Group Betting: A type of bet where participants are grouped together, often in events like golf or motorsports. Bettors wager on which participant will perform best within a designated group rather than betting on the overall winner of the event. For example, in golf, you might bet on which golfer will finish highest among a group of four or five players.

H

Half Ball Handicap: A term used in Asian handicap markets, a half-ball handicap (e.g., -0.5 or +0.5) means that one team has a half-goal advantage or disadvantage, removing a draw as a possible outcome. For example, if a team has a -0.5 handicap, they must win the game for the bet to be successful. A +0.5 handicap means the bet wins if the team wins or draws.

Half-Time/Full-Time Bet: A wager where the bettor must correctly predict both the outcome at half-time and the final result at full-time in a soccer match. For example, you could bet on a team to be winning at half-time but to draw by full-time. Both predictions must be correct for the bet to win.

Handicap: A betting method that levels the playing field between two teams or participants by giving one a virtual advantage or disadvantage. In sports betting, handicaps are often applied to even out contests where one side is heavily favored. The favorite must overcome the handicap, while the underdog benefits from it.

Handicapper: A person, either professional or recreational, who studies and analyzes events to predict the most likely outcomes. Handicappers often specialize in specific sports or horse racing and use statistics, trends, and other information to make their predictions. Some handicappers sell their tips to other bettors.

Handle: The total amount of money wagered on a particular event or over a specific period at a betting establishment. The handle refers to the entire volume of bets placed, and it’s a key metric for bookmakers to assess their business. For example, the handle for the Super Bowl is typically one of the highest of the year.

Hanging a Line: A term used when a bookmaker sets or adjusts the betting odds or point spread for a particular game or event. For example, if a bookmaker "hangs a line" of -3 for a football team, they are offering a point spread of three points for that team. Bettors can then place bets based on this line.

Heater: A prolonged winning streak where a bettor consistently wins bets over a period of time. It implies being on a hot run, where luck or skill results in frequent successful wagers, leading to significant profit.

Hedging: A strategy used by bettors to reduce risk or secure a profit by placing bets on the opposite side of an original wager. For example, if a bettor has a bet on a team to win a championship and the team reaches the final, they might hedge by betting on the opposing team to guarantee a profit regardless of the outcome.

Heinz Bet: A combination bet consisting of 57 individual bets on six selections. The Heinz includes 15 two-leg parlays, 20 three-leg parlays, 15 four-leg parlays, six five-leg parlays, and one six-leg parlay. At least two selections must win for the bettor to see a return. Named after the famous "57 varieties" slogan from the Heinz company.

High Roller: A bettor who places large wagers, often associated with high-stakes gambling. High rollers are typically seen in casinos or sports betting and are often given special treatment by betting establishments, such as VIP perks, bonuses, or higher betting limits. Their large wagers can influence betting markets and odds adjustments.

Hook: A half-point added to betting odds, commonly used in point spread or over/under betting to avoid ties (pushes). For example, in a football game, a 3.5-point spread includes the "hook." If the spread was simply 3 points and the team won by exactly 3, the bet would result in a push. The hook ensures that a bet results in either a win or a loss without a tie.

I

In-Play Betting: Also called "live betting", it's a form of wagering where bets are placed on an event while it is happening, rather than before it starts. Odds fluctuate in real-time based on the current state of the event. In-play betting is popular in sports like football, tennis, and basketball, allowing bettors to react to changes in the game.

Indicated Odds: A term used in betting exchanges to represent the odds at which a bettor has expressed interest in placing a bet but has not yet had the bet matched by another bettor. These can change based on market activity and demand before the bet is placed.

Index Betting: A form of betting where payouts are based on the performance of an event relative to a predefined index. For example, in sports, index betting might involve wagering on the total number of points scored over a series of games, with payouts based on how far above or below the actual outcome is compared to the index.

Implied Probability: the likelihood of a particular outcome based on the betting odds. It translates the odds into a percentage, helping bettors understand how often an event needs to occur for a bet to break even or be profitable.

In-House Betting: Refers to betting that takes place within a casino or other physical gambling establishment, as opposed to online or remote betting. In-house betting generally allows the bettor to place bets directly with the venue’s sportsbook or betting counter.

Inside Information: Information that is not publicly available but may affect the outcome of an event. This can include team injuries, changes in strategy, or other factors known only to people close to the event. Using inside information for betting purposes is illegal in many sports and can lead to serious consequences, including bans or fines.

Insurance Bet: A bet that a bettor places to minimize losses or reduce risk, similar to hedging. Insurance bets often cover scenarios where the original wager may not succeed, and bettors use them to ensure they receive at least some return on their money.

In the Money: A term used in horse racing and other competitions to describe participants that finish in the top positions, typically in the first three places. When a horse finishes "in the money," it means that it finished in a position that qualifies for a payout. A horse that finishes in the money results in a winning bet for place and show wagers.

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Joint Odds: A situation where two or more outcomes in an event are given the same odds. Joint odds can occur in various sports and events when the bookmaker views multiple participants as having an equal likelihood of winning or performing well.

Juice: A slang term for the commission or fee charged by a bookmaker on each bet, also known as "vig." The juice is the bookmaker’s profit margin and is typically built into the odds. For example, in point spread betting, a bettor may see odds of -110, meaning they need to bet $110 to win $100, with the extra $10 being the juice.

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Kelly Criterion: A mathematical formula used by bettors to determine the optimal size of a bet based on the perceived edge and the size of their bankroll. The Kelly Criterion is designed to maximize long-term growth while minimizing the risk of losing the entire bankroll. It helps bettors avoid over-betting on risky wagers and under-betting on favorable opportunities.

Key Bet: A type of bet in horse racing where a bettor picks one horse as a "key" selection and combines it with other horses in exotic bets such as exactas, trifectas, or superfectas. The key horse must finish in a predetermined position (such as first in an exacta), while the other horses can finish in any of the other required positions.

Key Numbers: The most common margins of victory, such as three or seven points in football (where key numbers are most commonly referred to in betting circles.) These numbers are significant because many games end with these point differentials, influencing how bettors evaluate spreads and totals.

Knock: In betting slang, "knock" refers to an attempt to reduce the impact of a bookmaker’s margin or juice by placing strategically timed bets. In horse racing, knocking can also refer to bettors criticizing or downplaying a horse’s chances to influence others’ betting behavior.

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Late Money: Bets placed close to the start of an event, often indicating sharp or informed betting activity. When large amounts of money are bet late, bookmakers may adjust the odds or line to balance their books in response to the perceived sharp action.

Lay: In betting exchanges, to "lay" a bet means to wager against a specific outcome. For example, if you lay a bet on a horse, you are betting that the horse will not win. This is the opposite of backing a selection. Laying is common in betting exchanges like Betfair, where bettors can act as bookmakers by offering odds for others to back.

Laying the Points: A term used in point spread betting when a bettor wagers on the favorite and gives up the points indicated by the spread. For example, if a team is favored by -6 points, the bettor who "lays the points" believes the team will win by more than 6 points. The opposite of laying the points is "taking the points."

Layoff: A term used by bookmakers to describe the action of placing bets with other bookmakers to reduce their liability. If a bookmaker has taken a lot of bets on one side of an event and stands to lose a significant amount, they might "lay off" some of the risk by placing their own bets on the opposite outcome with another bookmaker.

Lengthening (Odds): When odds "lengthen," it means they have increased, indicating that the market believes the selection has a lower chance of winning. For example, if a horse’s odds lengthen from 5/1 to 10/1, bettors perceive it as less likely to win. Lengthened odds can present value opportunities for some bettors.

Liability: The amount of money a bookmaker stands to lose on a specific bet or event. It represents the potential payout if the bet wins, and bookmakers manage liability to minimize risk and ensure profitability.

Limit: The maximum amount that a bookmaker will allow a bettor to wager on a particular market. Betting limits vary based on the sport, the type of bet, and the specific bookmaker. High-limit bettors, often referred to as "sharps," may have their limits restricted by bookmakers if they are perceived as consistently winning.

Line: The point spread or odds set by the bookmaker for a particular event. Bettors can wager on either side of the line, with the point spread adjusting the margin between the two teams to create a more balanced betting market. For example, a football line might show Team A -3, meaning Team A must win by more than 3 points for the bet to win.

Line Freeze: When a bookmaker temporarily stops adjusting the odds or point spread on a particular event. A line freeze often occurs when there is uncertainty about key factors, such as the health of a player or impending weather conditions. It allows the bookmaker to assess the situation before re-opening the market with adjusted odds.

Linemaker: A person or team responsible for setting the odds and point spreads for sporting events. Also known as oddsmakers, they use various factors, such as team performance, injuries, and betting patterns, to create a balanced betting market where action is taken on both sides of the line.

Line Movement: Shifts in odds or point spreads from their initial posting by the sportsbook. These changes occur due to factors like heavy betting on one side, player injuries, weather conditions, or updated information, and they help balance action between bettors.

Line Shopping: The process of comparing odds or point spreads from different bookmakers to find the most favorable terms for a bet. Smart bettors often engage in line shopping to ensure they are getting the best possible odds or most advantageous point spread, which can improve long-term profitability.

Liquidity: A term used in betting exchanges to describe the availability of funds in a market that allows bets to be matched. High liquidity means there are plenty of bettors on both sides (backers and layers), making it easier to place and match bets at favorable odds. Low liquidity can result in difficulty finding matching bets or less favorable odds.

Lock: A term used to describe a bet that is perceived as likely to win, often used informally by bettors. While no bet is guaranteed, a lock is seen as a "sure thing" based on the bettor’s analysis. However, overconfidence in "locks" can sometimes lead to risky betting behavior.

Live Betting: A type of betting that takes place while an event is ongoing. In live betting, odds fluctuate in real-time based on the current state of the game or match. Live betting allows bettors to react to developments during the event, such as injuries, changes in momentum, or weather conditions.

Lock-In: A betting strategy where a bettor secures a profit or limits a loss regardless of the outcome by placing additional bets. This is often done through hedging or placing opposing bets on a different outcome. For example, a bettor who stands to win a large sum from an earlier bet might place a hedge bet to ensure some profit if the original bet loses.

Long Shot: A selection that is considered unlikely to win, based on the odds. Long shots have higher odds, offering larger potential payouts but also representing greater risk. Bettors often take long shots when they believe the market has underestimated a selection’s chances or when they are looking for a high-reward opportunity.

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Margin: The difference between the final score of two teams, commonly used in point spread betting. In some cases, it also refers to the bookmaker's profit margin, known as the "vig" or "juice," which is built into the odds to ensure the bookmaker makes a profit over time.

Margin of Victory Bet: Wagering on the exact difference in points or goals by which a team will win. Bettors predict the specific margin, such as a team winning by three points, with payouts reflecting the difficulty of correctly predicting the outcome.

Market: The betting opportunities available for a specific event. For example, a soccer match might have several markets, such as the match winner, correct score, total goals, or first goalscorer. Bettors can place wagers on any of these available markets.

Market Maker: A bookmaker or entity responsible for setting the initial odds or point spread for an event. Market makers influence the betting market by establishing lines that other bookmakers or bettors may follow. Sharp bettors often focus on betting against or with market makers, as their lines are viewed as the most accurate.

Matched Betting: A strategy where bettors use free bets and bonuses offered by bookmakers to make risk-free profits by placing bets on all possible outcomes of an event. Matched betting is often considered a way to "beat" the system because it allows bettors to guarantee a profit regardless of the event's outcome by using lay bets on a betting exchange.

Martingale System: A betting system in which a bettor doubles their stake after every loss in an attempt to recover all previous losses with a single win. While this system can be effective in theory, it requires a large bankroll and can lead to significant losses if the bettor encounters a long losing streak.

Max Bet: The maximum amount a bookmaker allows a bettor to wager on a specific event or market. The max bet limit can vary depending on the sport, type of bet, and the specific bookmaker. Professional or successful bettors often encounter max bet restrictions as a way for bookmakers to limit potential losses.

Microbetting: Placing bets on small, in-game events that happen in real-time during a sports contest, rather than betting on the overall outcome. These wagers could include predicting the result of the next play, possession, or minute-by-minute occurrences in a game.

Middling: A betting strategy where a bettor places two opposing bets on the same event but at different points spreads or odds, with the hope that the final outcome falls in the middle of the two spreads. If successful, the bettor wins both bets. For example, if a bettor wagers on Team A at -4 and Team B at +6, they win both bets if the game is decided by five points.

Moneyline: A type of bet where the bettor simply wagers on which team or individual will win the event, without using a point spread. Moneyline odds are expressed differently in various regions. For example, in the U.S., they are shown as positive (+) or negative (-) numbers (e.g., -150 or +200). We offer daily moneyline plays in our betting picks and predictions hub.

Moose: Sn extremely unlucky or bad beat, where a bet that seemed like a sure winner suddenly loses due to a late, unexpected turn of events. Bettors use this term when luck goes dramatically against them at the last moment.

Moving the Line/Total: A betting action where the bettor buys or sells points to adjust the point spread or total in their favor. By moving the line, bettors can reduce the risk of their bet, but it comes at the cost of reduced odds or a higher price. For example, moving a football spread from -7 to -6.5 reduces the chances of a push, but lowers the potential payout.

Mush: A person who is considered to bring bad luck, similar to a jinx. When a mush places a bet or expresses confidence in an outcome, it often loses. This term is used humorously or superstitiously to describe someone whose predictions or bets frequently result in failure.

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Nap: A term used predominantly in UK horse racing to refer to a tipster’s most confident selection of the day. A "nap" is considered the best bet for that day, often backed with high confidence by both the tipster and bettors. It can be applied to other sports as well.

Negative Expected Value (-EV): Refers to a situation where a bet is expected to lose money in the long term. Negative expected value occurs when the odds offered do not accurately reflect the probability of an outcome, meaning the bettor is at a disadvantage.

Newbie: Also known as a "noob", it refers to someone who is new to betting and lacks experience in understanding odds, placing bets, or navigating the betting markets. Newbies often make beginner mistakes and are still learning how to make informed betting decisions and manage their bankroll.

"Next Scorer": A specific type of in-play or live bet where bettors wager on which player or team will record the next major milestone match (goal, basket, touchdown, home run, etc.). This bet allows bettors to place bets during the game as the action unfolds and is a popular form of microbetting.

Nickel: A slang term for a $500 bet, often used in American betting circles. For example, "I put a nickel on the game" means the bettor wagered $500. It is part of a broader betting slang system that includes terms like "dime" (for $1,000) and "grand" (for $1,000).

No Action: A term used to describe a bet that has been canceled or voided, meaning that the wager is returned to the bettor. No action occurs when an event is postponed, canceled, or when the terms of the bet are not met (e.g., a specific player not starting the game). In cases of no action, no win or loss occurs, and the bettor gets their stake back.

Novelty Bets: Also known as "prop bets" or "specials," novelty bets are wagers placed on unusual or non-sporting events, rather than the outcome of a game. These bets can range from entertainment events like the Oscars, political outcomes, or even unique in-game occurrences, such as the length of the national anthem.

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Odds: The ratio or probability that reflects the chances of a particular outcome occurring in a betting event. Odds determine how much a bettor stands to win relative to their stake. There are several types of odds formats, including fractional (e.g., 5/1), decimal (e.g., 6.00), and moneyline (e.g., +500 or -200).

Oddsmaker: A person or group responsible for setting and adjusting the odds for an event. Oddsmakers use statistical analysis, trends, and other data to determine the likelihood of different outcomes and assign appropriate odds. They may also adjust the odds based on betting activity to balance the book and minimize risk for the bookmaker.

Odds-On: A term used to describe a selection that is favored to win, with odds lower than even money (less than 2.00 in decimal odds, or negative odds in moneyline betting). In an odds-on bet, the bettor must risk more than they stand to win. For example, odds of 4/5 mean that a bettor must stake $5 to win $4.

Odds-On Favorite: A term that refers to a team, player, or outcome expected to win, with odds considerably lower than even money (usually lower than -200 in American odds). This means the favorite is heavily favored, and bettors must risk more money for a smaller return.

Off-Track Betting (OTB): A type of betting where wagers are placed on horse races from a location that is not at the racetrack. OTB locations can be specialized betting shops, casinos, or online platforms that allow bettors to wager on races without being at the track.

Off the Board: A situation where a bookmaker removes a betting market or event from the list of available bets, often due to uncertainties such as injuries, weather changes, or other unpredictable factors. When an event is "off the board," no further bets can be placed until the market is reopened, if at all.

Offshore Book: A sportsbook that operates outside the country of the bettor and is licensed in a different jurisdiction. Offshore books often attract bettors by offering tax advantages, fewer betting restrictions, or more favorable odds. However, using offshore books may come with legal risks, depending on local gambling laws.

On the Nose: A term used in horse racing to describe a straight win bet on a horse. If a bettor places a bet "on the nose," they are betting that the horse will win the race outright, as opposed to betting on the horse to place or show.

Opening Line: The initial odds or point spread set by a bookmaker for a sporting event. The opening line is based on the bookmaker's early assessment of the likely outcome, and it may change as betting activity and new information, such as injuries or team news, affect the odds. Bettors often look for value in the opening line before it shifts.

Opening Bet: A bet placed on the overall winner of a tournament, league, or championship rather than on individual matches or games. Common in sports like tennis, golf, and soccer, outright bets often involve predicting the winner of a competition before it begins, but they can also be placed during the event with adjusted odds.

Outright Winner: A bet on the overall winner of a specific event or competition. Similar to an outright bet, but the focus is exclusively on predicting the champion or first-place finisher. This type of bet is common in long-term markets such as the winner of a sports league, tournament, or championship.

Outsider: A participant in an event that is considered unlikely to win, often reflected by high odds. An outsider (also known as a longshot) offers a large potential payout but has a lower probability of success. Bettors sometimes back outsiders in hopes of achieving a big win, though the risk is higher.

Over: A bet placed on the total points, goals, or runs in a game exceeding a set number determined by the sportsbook. Bettors wager that the combined score of both teams will be higher than the specified total.

Over/Under: A market where the bettor wagers on whether the total number of points, goals, or runs scored in a game will be over or under a number set by the bookmaker. For example, in a football game with an over/under line of 45.5 points, a bet on "over" wins if the combined score is 46 or higher, while a bet on "under" wins if the combined score is 45 or fewer.

Overbought: A situation where there has been heavy betting on one outcome, causing the odds to become unfavorable or too short. An overbought market can signal that public money is driving the odds, potentially creating value for the other side of the bet.

Overlay: A situation where the odds offered by the bookmaker are more favorable than the actual probability of the outcome, providing value to the bettor. An overlay occurs when the bookmaker has mispriced a bet, giving the bettor an advantage. Skilled bettors look for overlays as opportunities to place +EV (positive expected value) bets.

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Parimutuel Betting: A betting system used primarily in horse racing, where all bets are placed into a pool, and the odds are determined by the amount of money bet on each selection. After the event, the pool (minus a commission for the operator) is divided among the winners.

Parlay: A bet that combines multiple selections into a single wager. All selections (legs) must win for the bet to be successful. Parlays offer higher potential payouts because the odds of each selection are multiplied, but the risk is also greater since one losing selection results in the entire parlay losing.

Payout: The total amount of money a bettor receives if their bet is successful. The payout includes the original stake plus the profit, based on the odds of the bet. For example, if a bettor stakes $100 on 2/1 odds, the payout would be $300 ($200 profit plus the $100 stake).

Permutations: In betting, permutations refer to multiple combinations of selections within a single bet. This allows bettors to place bets on multiple possible outcomes without needing every selection to be correct. Permutations are common in multiple bets like Yankees, Lucky 15s, and accumulators, where each leg of the bet is placed in different combinations.

Pick 6: A popular bet in horse racing where bettors must correctly select the winners of six consecutive races. The bet offers large payouts due to its difficulty, and it often has a jackpot prize that accumulates if no one wins. Pick 6 bets are also found in other sports, especially in betting pools for major events.

Pick 'Em: A betting market where neither team is favored, and the point spread is set at zero. Bettors simply choose which team will win the game outright. There is no handicap or spread involved, making it a straightforward moneyline bet.

Place Bet: A type of bet in horse racing where the bettor wagers on a horse to finish in the top two (or in some cases, top three or four, depending on the size of the field). A place bet offers a lower payout than a win bet but provides a greater chance of a return.

Player Props: A type of prop bet that focuses on an individual player’s performance in a game. Common player props include betting on how many points a player will score, how many rebounds they will get, or how many touchdowns they will throw. Player props are popular in sports like basketball, football, and soccer.

Point Spread: A form of betting used primarily in sports like football and basketball, where the favorite must win by a certain margin (the point spread) for the bet to win, while the underdog can either win outright or lose by fewer points than the spread. For example, if a team is -7, they must win by more than 7 points for a bet on them to win.

Pool Betting: A betting system where all bets on a particular market are pooled together, and the winnings are distributed among the bettors who correctly predicted the outcome. The total pool is divided after the operator takes a commission. Pool betting is common in horse racing and lotteries.

Price: Another term for betting odds. The price represents the potential return on a bet relative to the stake. For example, a "short price" refers to lower odds (e.g., 1/2), meaning the favorite has a high likelihood of winning, while a "long price" refers to higher odds (e.g., 10/1), indicating a less likely outcome with a larger potential payout.

Promo Code: A special code that unlocks bonuses or promotions, such as deposit matches, free bets, risk-free bets, or enhanced odds. These codes are typically used during sign-up or while placing bets and are designed to offer extra value, attracting new users or rewarding existing players at sportsbooks. You'll find our best sportsbook promos here.

Prop Bet (Proposition Bet): A bet placed on an event or outcome within a game that is not directly tied to the final result. Prop bets can include things like which player will score first, how many goals will be scored by one team, or whether a specific event will happen during the game. These bets are popular for their entertainment value.

Prop Builder: A tool offered by sportsbooks that allows bettors to create custom prop bets. Prop builders give bettors the flexibility to combine specific player or game stats into a single bet, such as a certain player to score first and the total goals to exceed a certain number.

Public Money: The term used to describe the betting action or volume generated by the general public, as opposed to professional bettors ("sharp money"). Public money can influence odds and lines, especially if a large volume of bets is placed on one side of an event. Bookmakers may adjust lines to balance the book based on the flow of public money.

Puck Line: A form of point spread betting used in hockey, where one team is given a -1.5 goal handicap (favorite) and the other team a +1.5 goal advantage (underdog). The puck line bet requires the favorite to win by at least 2 goals or the underdog to lose by no more than 1 goal (or win outright) for the bet to be successful.

Punter: A colloquial term used in the UK, Ireland, and Australia to describe a bettor or someone who places bets. The term "punter" is often used in horse racing and sports betting to refer to casual or recreational bettors.

Push: A situation where the final result of a bet lands exactly on the point spread or totals line, meaning neither the bettor nor the bookmaker wins. In the case of a push, the bettor’s stake is typically refunded. For example, if a football team is favored by 3 points and wins by exactly 3 points, the bet is a push.

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Quadpot: A type of pool betting wager in horse racing, typically offered in the UK and Ireland, where the bettor must select a horse to place (finish in the top two, three, or four, depending on the race) in four consecutive races. If successful, the bettor wins a share of the pool.

Qualifying Bet: In matched betting, a qualifying bet is a bet placed to unlock a free bet or bonus from a bookmaker. Qualifying bets are typically placed at odds specified by the bookmaker's promotion terms. The purpose of a qualifying bet is to satisfy the conditions required to receive the free bet, which can then be used to make a risk-free profit.

Quarter Line: A point spread or moneyline bet that applies only to a specific quarter of a game. Quarter lines allow bettors to focus on one part of the game, often influenced by in-game developments or team performance in previous quarters. These bets are common in sports like basketball and football.

Quick Pick: A betting option often used in lotteries or parimutuel betting, where the selections are randomly generated by a computer rather than manually chosen by the bettor. In horse racing or sports betting, quick picks can also refer to automatically generated selections made by the betting platform based on certain criteria.

Quinella: A type of bet in horse racing where the bettor selects two horses to finish first and second in any order. Unlike an exacta, where the horses must finish in a specific order, a quinella allows for either horse to finish in the top two positions. The odds and payout are usually lower than an exacta due to the increased chances of winning.

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Racino: A hybrid facility that combines a racetrack with a casino. Racinos offer both horse or greyhound racing and casino gaming, such as slot machines or table games. They're popular in regions where traditional casinos are limited, allowing bettors to enjoy both types of gambling in one location.

Rag: A term used in horse racing to describe a longshot or outsider that is considered unlikely to win. The odds for a rag are typically very high, reflecting the low expectations for its performance. Bettors may back a rag for a large potential payout, though the risk is higher.

Rebet: To place the same bet again. Some betting platforms offer a rebet feature that allows bettors to quickly repeat a previous wager with the same stake and selections. Rebets are commonly used in in-play betting, where bettors may want to quickly react to changing odds.

Reduced juice: A promotion where the sportsbook offers lower commission or "vig" on bets, allowing bettors to risk less for the same potential payout. For example, instead of the standard -110 odds, reduced juice might offer -105, benefiting bettors by reducing costs.

Return: The total amount a bettor receives when a bet wins, including both the original stake and the profit. For example, if a bettor places a $100 bet at odds of 2/1 and wins, the return would be $300 ($200 in winnings plus the $100 stake).

Return on Investment (ROI): A measure of the profitability of a bettor’s wagers over time. ROI is calculated by dividing the net profit by the total amount wagered and is expressed as a percentage. For example, if a bettor has wagered $1,000 and made a profit of $100, their ROI would be 10%. A positive ROI indicates profitable betting, while a negative ROI shows losses.

Reverse Bet: A type of bet that involves multiple selections where the bettor backs different combinations of outcomes. A reverse bet is typically used in two-way markets (such as horse racing) and is essentially a pair of if-bets placed in both directions. This allows the bettor to profit regardless of the order in which their selections win.

Reverse line movement: Occurs when the betting line moves in the opposite direction of the majority of public bets. For example, if most bettors are wagering on one team, but the line shifts in favor of the other, this suggests sharp (professional) money influencing the odds.

Risk-Free Bet: A type of promotion where a sportsbook offers a refund (usually in the form of a free bet) if the bettor's initial wager loses. Risk-free bets are often used to attract new customers by reducing the risk of losing money on their first bet. However, the refund is typically provided as a bonus bet rather than cash.

Risk Management: A strategy used by bettors and bookmakers to minimize potential losses. Bettors use risk management by controlling their bankroll, limiting the size of individual bets, and avoiding risky wagers. Bookmakers use risk management by adjusting odds, limiting betting amounts, or balancing the action on both sides of a betting market to ensure profit.

Rollover Requirement: A condition attached to bonuses or promotions offered by online sportsbooks, requiring bettors to wager a certain amount before they can withdraw any winnings. For example, if a bettor receives a $100 bonus with a 5x rollover requirement, they must place $500 worth of bets before they can withdraw any winnings from the bonus.

Rotation Number: a unique identifier assigned to each team or bet on a sportsbook's betting board. Bettors use this number to quickly and accurately place their wagers, ensuring they are betting on the correct team or outcome, especially in busy sportsbooks.

Round Robin: A bet that combines several parlays into one wager. A round robin involves three or more selections, and it creates multiple two-team parlay combinations from those selections. Bettors can win on some of the parlays even if one or more selections lose. For example, a round robin with three teams would consist of three separate two-team parlays.

Run Line: A point spread used in baseball betting. Similar to the puck line in hockey, the run line is almost always set at 1.5 runs. The favorite must win by at least 2 runs for a bet on them to win, while the underdog can either win outright or lose by 1 run for a bet on them to win. This type of bet introduces spread betting into baseball, which normally has moneyline odds.

Runner: someone who places bets on behalf of another person, often a professional bettor or syndicate. Runners help disguise betting patterns, allowing the bettor to avoid detection by sportsbooks, especially when placing large or frequent wagers.

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Same Game Parlay: A popular bet where multiple selections are made from the same game or event, combining them into a single parlay. For example, a bettor might wager on a team to win, a specific player to score, and the total points in a football game, all within the same parlay. Same game parlays offer the potential for higher payouts but carry increased risk.

Scalping: A form of arbitrage betting where a bettor takes advantage of discrepancies in odds between different bookmakers. By placing bets on all possible outcomes of an event across multiple sportsbooks, the bettor guarantees a profit regardless of the result. Scalping requires quick action and constant monitoring of the market to spot differences in odds.

Scamdicapper: A term for a fraudulent or deceptive handicapper who sells inaccurate or misleading sports betting advice to bettors, often promising guaranteed wins or unrealistic success rates. These individuals prey on inexperienced bettors, aiming to profit from their lack of knowledge or desperation to win.

Second-Chance Bet: A promotional offer from a sportsbook that allows bettors to receive a refund or credit (often in the form of a free bet) if their initial bet loses. This type of offer is designed to attract new bettors and reduce the perceived risk of making their first wager.

Second Half Bet: A bet placed on the outcome of the second half of a game. Second half bets can be placed at halftime and allow bettors to wager on the result of the second half only, without considering the score from the first half. This type of bet is common in basketball and American football.

Sharp: A highly skilled and experienced bettor who consistently makes profitable bets. Sharps often have deep knowledge of a sport, employ statistical models, and have access to inside information, allowing them to place well-researched bets. Bookmakers may limit sharp bettors or adjust lines to account for sharp action.

Sharp Money: Wagers placed by professional or highly knowledgeable bettors, often referred to as "sharps." Sharp money usually reflects well-researched or statistically informed bets, and bookmakers often adjust their lines in response to sharp money to limit their exposure.

Show Bet: A bet in horse racing where the bettor wagers on a horse to finish in one of the top three positions (win, place, or show). A show bet offers lower odds and payouts but increases the chance of a return compared to win or place bets, which are more specific.

Side: The team or competitor that a bettor wagers on in a particular game or event. For example, in a football game, a bettor may place a bet on either side (Team A or Team B) to win. Betting on the side typically refers to wagering on the point spread or moneyline, rather than the total (over/under) or prop bets.

Smart Money: Wagers made by sharp bettors or professional gamblers who are considered to have an edge due to research, statistical analysis, or inside knowledge. When sportsbooks adjust their odds in response to sharp or smart money, it often signals that informed betting activity is influencing the market.

Soft Line: A betting line that is considered to be inaccurate or mispriced, often due to insufficient market action or a bookmaker’s error. Soft lines are more common in smaller markets or niche sports, where bookmakers may not have as much expertise or information.

Specials (Prop Bets): A type of bet on an event within a game or match that is not directly related to the final result. Specials, also known as prop bets, can include individual player performance (such as scoring a goal or hitting a home run) or specific in-game occurrences (like a red card being shown or the number of corners in a soccer match).

Sportsbook: A place where bets can be placed on sports events. Sportsbooks can be physical locations, such as those found in casinos, or online platforms. The sportsbook offers odds on various events and accepts bets from customers, making money by taking a small percentage (the vig) from losing bets. You'll find our list of best sportsbooks here.

Spread Betting: A form of betting where the outcome is determined by the accuracy of the wager rather than a simple win or loss. The bettor wagers on whether the outcome will be higher or lower than a bookmaker’s spread, such as total points in a game. Payouts are based on how much the result deviates from the spread.

Square: A term used to describe a casual or recreational bettor who typically lacks advanced knowledge or strategy and often makes bets based on gut feeling, popular opinion, or bias rather than research and analysis. Squares tend to bet on favorites or well-known teams, and bookmakers often cater to them by setting lines that exploit public perception.

Stake: The amount of money a bettor places on a wager. The stake is the risk taken by the bettor, and it is returned along with any winnings if the bet is successful. For example, if a bettor stakes $100 on a bet with 2/1 odds, he or she stands to win $200 in profit plus the return of his or her $100 stake.

Steam: A term used to describe rapid and significant line movement caused by heavy betting activity on one side of a market. When a line "steams," it usually indicates that sharp bettors or large volumes of money have been wagered, prompting the bookmaker to adjust the odds. Bettors often try to "follow the steam" to capitalize on perceived sharp action.

Stop Loss: A betting strategy where the bettor sets a predefined loss limit, stopping further bets once they reach this threshold. The stop-loss strategy is used to prevent bettors from chasing losses and risking more money than they can afford. It is a key component of responsible gambling and bankroll management.

Straight Bet: A simple bet on a single outcome, such as picking a team to win a game or wagering on the total number of points. A straight bet involves no additional combinations or selections, making it one of the most straightforward and common types of wagers.

Straight Forecast: A bet in horse racing where the bettor must predict the first two horses to finish the race in the exact order. A straight forecast offers higher payouts than a place or win bet due to the difficulty of predicting the exact outcome.

Sucker Bet: A bet that is considered highly unfavorable to the bettor because of the odds or the likelihood of winning. Bookmakers offer sucker bets to attract recreational or uninformed bettors with the promise of a high payout, but the chances of winning are low. Examples include very large accumulators or novelty bets with long odds.

Superfecta: A bet in horse racing where the bettor must correctly predict the first four finishers in a race in the exact order. Superfectas offer high payouts due to the difficulty of predicting four specific outcomes, but they also come with high risk.

Suspended Bet: A situation where a bookmaker temporarily halts betting on an event, often due to significant developments such as injuries, weather changes, or other key factors that could impact the outcome. Betting is usually reopened after the odds are adjusted.

Sweat: The anxious feeling a bettor experiences while waiting for the outcome of their bet, especially in a close or uncertain situation. For example, a bettor might say, "I'm sweating this game," meaning they are nervous about whether their bet will win or lose as the game unfolds. Sweating a bet is common when the result is hanging in the balance.

Syndicate: A group of bettors who pool their money together to place bets, often with the goal of increasing their chances of winning. Syndicates are common in horse racing, lotteries, and large parlay plays, allowing bettors to spread the risk and share the potential reward. Professional syndicates may also use complex betting strategies or inside information.

System Bet: A type of multiple bet that allows bettors to combine several selections without requiring all of them to win. For example, if a bettor chooses four teams, they can create combinations of two, three, or four-team parlays. The system bet provides more chances to win, but the payout is lower compared to an accumulator where all selections must win.

T

Taking the Points: A term used in point spread betting where the bettor places a wager on the underdog, meaning they are "taking" the points given to the underdog by the bookmaker. For example, if a team is +7, the bettor wins the wager if the underdog either wins outright or loses by fewer than 7 points.

Tapped Out: Refers to a bettor who has run out of funds or depleted their bankroll. It describes a situation where a bettor can no longer place wagers due to losing all available money, often signaling poor money management or a losing streak.

Teaser: A type of parlay bet where the bettor can adjust the point spread or total in their favor across multiple games. While teasers offer lower payouts than standard parlays, they are more flexible because they allow the bettor to shift the spread or total, typically by 6, 6.5, or 7 points in football or basketball. All selections must still win for the bet to be successful.

Tick: A small movement in odds or prices, often used in betting exchanges. A tick represents the smallest increment by which the odds or price can change, and traders monitor tick movements to spot potential value or adjust their bets. A tick might represent a 0.01 change in decimal odds or a small percentage in fractional odds.

Tilting: refers to when a bettor becomes emotionally frustrated or upset after a losing streak and starts making irrational or impulsive bets. This loss of control, driven by frustration, often leads to poor decision-making and further financial losses.

Tipster: A person who provides betting advice or predictions, often for a fee or subscription. Tipsters offer insights on likely outcomes based on their knowledge of a sport, and many bettors follow tipsters to help make informed wagers. While some tipsters are reputable, others may lack the expertise needed to consistently predict outcomes.

Top-up Bet: A bet placed after an initial wager, often to increase the stake on the same outcome or to add a bet to another selection in the same event. Bettors might top-up their bet if they feel more confident after learning additional information or seeing favorable developments in the event.

Total (Over/Under): A betting market where the bettor wagers on whether the combined score of both teams in a game will be over or under a number set by the bookmaker. For example, if the total for a football game is set at 45.5 points, a bettor can place a bet on whether the combined score will be over or under that number.

Tout: A person or service that sells or provides betting tips and advice, often claiming to have insider information or expertise in predicting outcomes. Touts typically charge a fee for their tips, but their success rate can vary. Bettors are advised to research touts carefully, as some may not have the expertise or reliability they claim.

Trading: In betting exchanges, trading refers to the practice of buying and selling bets before an event concludes to secure profit or minimize losses. Traders look for opportunities to "back" a selection at higher odds and then "lay" the same selection at lower odds (or vice versa), locking in a profit regardless of the outcome.

Trap Game: A game in which a favored team may overlook a supposedly weaker opponent due to a stronger team or important game coming up. Trap games can lead to surprising outcomes, as the favorite might not perform to their full potential. Bettors sometimes target trap games for potential value in betting on the underdog.

Trap Line: A betting line set by bookmakers that may appear too good to be true, potentially "trapping" bettors into placing a wager based on misleading odds. Trap lines are often set to attract square money (casual bettors), and sharp bettors might recognize the trap and bet against the public.

Treble (or Triple): A bet that combines three selections into one wager. All three selections must win for the treble bet to be successful. If one selection loses, the entire bet is lost. Trebles offer higher payouts than single bets but come with increased risk due to the need for all selections to win.

Trends: patterns or tendencies in data that bettors use to predict future outcomes. These can include a team's recent performance, head-to-head matchups, or specific situational factors like home vs. away games, helping bettors make more informed decisions.

Trifecta: A type of bet in horse racing where the bettor must correctly predict the first three horses to finish a race in the exact order. Trifectas offer high payouts due to the difficulty of predicting three specific outcomes in sequence, making them a popular bet among more experienced horse racing bettors.

Two-Way Market: A betting market with only two possible outcomes, such as a win/loss situation. Examples of two-way markets include moneyline bets in sports like tennis or basketball, where there is no draw option, or over/under bets in football. These markets are simpler than three-way markets, which include a third option like a draw.

U

Unanimous Decision: A term used in combat sports such as boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA) when all judges agree on the same fighter as the winner after the fight goes the distance. Bettors can wager on the method of victory, including whether the fight will end in a unanimous decision.

Under: A betting option in the over/under market where the bettor wagers that the total score of a game or event will be less than the number set by the bookmaker. For example, in a football game with a total of 50.5 points, a bet on "under" wins if the combined score of both teams is 50 points or fewer.

Underdog: The team or participant that is expected to lose in a sporting event, according to the odds set by bookmakers. Underdogs have higher odds, meaning a bet on them offers a larger potential payout if they win. Bettors sometimes back underdogs when they believe the odds overestimate the favorite’s chances of winning.

Under the Limit: A term referring to bets that fall below the maximum allowed stake set by the bookmaker. Bettors often stay "under the limit" to avoid attracting attention from the bookmaker, especially if they are consistently profitable.

Underlay: A bet where the odds offered are lower than the actual probability of the outcome, meaning the bettor is at a disadvantage. Bookmakers intentionally create underlays to ensure they maintain a profit margin. Sharp bettors seek to avoid underlays and instead look for "overlays" where the odds are in their favor.

Unit: A standard measurement of the amount a bettor risks on a wager, usually expressed as a percentage of their total bankroll. For example, if a bettor’s bankroll is $1,000 and they bet 1 unit per game (1% of their bankroll), each unit would be $10. Using units helps bettors track their success and losses more easily, regardless of their bankroll size.

Unsettled Bet: A bet that has not yet been resolved because the event is still ongoing or the results have not been officially confirmed. Unsettled bets remain open until the event concludes and the outcome is determined. Once the event is complete, the bet is settled, and any winnings or losses are applied to the bettor’s account.

Upset: An outcome where the underdog wins a game or event against the favorite. Upsets are often surprising results that defy the expectations set by the odds. Bettors who wager on upsets can receive significant payouts because the underdog typically has longer odds.

V

Value: The potential profit that a bet offers compared to its probability of success. Bettors aim to find value in the odds offered by bookmakers, where the chances of an outcome happening are higher than the implied probability of the odds. Value betting is a long-term strategy focused on finding profitable opportunities rather than simply picking winners.

Variance: A statistical concept in betting that refers to the fluctuation in outcomes over a short period, particularly in relation to expected results. High variance means that results can deviate significantly from the expected average, leading to streaks of wins or losses. In the long run, variance tends to balance out.

Vegas Line: The betting odds or point spread set by sportsbooks in Las Vegas, which are often considered the standard in the betting industry. Vegas lines are used as a benchmark by many other sportsbooks worldwide, and they frequently adjust based on betting action and new information.

Vigorish (Vig): Also known as "juice," vigorish is the bookmaker’s commission on bets. It represents the margin the bookmaker takes to ensure a profit regardless of the outcome. For example, in a typical -110 point spread bet, a bettor must risk $110 to win $100, with the extra $10 being the bookmaker’s vigorish.

Virtual Sports: A form of betting on simulated sports events that are generated by software. Virtual sports include simulations of popular sports such as football, horse racing, and tennis, with random outcomes based on algorithms. Virtual sports betting runs continuously and offers bettors an alternative to live sports events, particularly during offseason periods.

Voided Bet: A bet that is canceled and refunded, typically due to unforeseen circumstances such as a game being postponed or a participant withdrawing from an event. In the case of a void bet, the bettor’s stake is returned, and no win or loss occurs. Some bets may also be voided due to a rule violation or mistake in the betting process.

Volatility: A term used to describe the degree of variation in odds, outcomes, or results in a betting market. High volatility means that the results can swing dramatically, leading to larger potential wins or losses. Low volatility indicates more predictable outcomes, with smaller fluctuations in results.

W

Wager: Another term for a bet. A wager is the amount of money risked on the outcome of an event. If a bettor places $100 on a team to win a football game, that $100 is their wager.

Welch: A derogatory term for someone who refuses to pay off a debt after losing a bet. Bookmakers and bettors alike frown upon those who welch on bets, as it undermines the integrity of the betting system.

Whip Bet: A slang term for a large, aggressive bet, often placed with high confidence. This type of bet is typically made by experienced bettors who are willing to risk a significant portion of their bankroll on a single outcome.

Win Bet: A simple bet where the bettor wagers on a team, player, or horse to win outright. In horse racing, a win bet means the bettor is wagering that the selected horse will finish first. If the selection does not win, the bet is lost.

Wire-to-Wire: A betting term used when a team or individual leads from the start to the finish of a game or race. In horse racing, a wire-to-wire win means the horse was in first place throughout the entire race. Bettors can place specific wire-to-wire bets, predicting that a team or competitor will lead for the duration of the event.

Wiseguy: A term used to describe a professional or highly skilled bettor who consistently makes profitable bets. Wiseguys, also known as "sharps," often have access to insider information, advanced analytics, or deep knowledge of a sport, allowing them to spot value bets before the odds shift.

Win/Place/Show: A popular bet in horse racing where the bettor can wager on a horse to Win (in which the horse must finish first), Place (where the horse must finish first or second) or Show (where the horse must finish first, second, or third.) This bet structure allows for multiple ways to win but at progressively lower payouts as the risk decreases.

X

X-Cross Props: Proposition bets that involve multiple games or events, often across different sports. Bettors wager on the outcome of one event in relation to another, such as comparing the total points scored in a football game to the goals in a hockey game.

X-Draw: A shorthand term used in betting to refer to a draw in soccer or other sports where a tie is a possible outcome. Bettors who wager on "X" are predicting that the match will end in a draw, which can often offer better odds than backing either team to win.

X-Goals (Expected Goals): A statistical measurement used in soccer to estimate the quality of scoring chances and predict the number of goals a team is expected to score in a match. X-Goals are commonly used in betting analysis to assess whether teams are performing above or below expectations based on the quality of their goal-scoring opportunities.

Y

Yankee Tax: the premium or inflated odds bookmakers place on popular teams, such as the New York Yankees. Since many casual bettors favor these teams, sportsbooks adjust the odds, making bets on them less favorable to balance the betting action.

Yes/No Proposition: A type of bet where the bettor wagers on whether a specific event will or will not happen. Common in prop betting, this market allows bettors to place bets on binary outcomes, such as "Will Team A score first?" (Yes/No) or "Will there be a penalty in the match?" (Yes/No). This is often seen in sports like football, basketball, and soccer.

Yield: A betting term that measures the profitability of a bettor’s wagers over time. Yield is calculated by dividing the total profit by the total amount wagered and is usually expressed as a percentage. For example, if a bettor has staked $1,000 over time and made a profit of $100, their yield would be 10%.

Yield Management: A strategy used by bookmakers to adjust odds and lines based on betting volume and risk. Bookmakers use yield management to balance their books and ensure profitability by monitoring how much money is being wagered on various outcomes and adjusting the odds accordingly.

Z

Zebra: A slang term used in American sports, especially football and basketball, to refer to referees or officials because of their black-and-white striped uniforms. In betting discussions, bettors might talk about the impact of the "zebras" on the game, especially if there’s a controversial call.

Zero Zuice: A rare situation in which a bookmaker offers a bet with no vig (or commission), meaning the bettor only risks their stake and does not have to account for the bookmaker’s margin. Zero juice is typically offered as a promotion or for short periods to attract bettors. It allows for better value betting since the odds aren’t skewed in the bookmaker’s favor.

Zigzag Theory: A betting theory most commonly applied to NBA playoff series. It suggests that after a team loses a game in a playoff series, they are more likely to win the next game. Bettors who follow the zigzag theory might place wagers on the team that just lost, expecting a bounce-back performance in the next game.