Glossary of Terms
These are the most commonly used inside words and phrases, which are associated with each major sporting event, racebook event or casino event on the planet. This lingo will not only enable you to better understand the gaming world, but also to experience the way other players communicate.
( Note: The words he, his, him, and himself, as used in this glossary, are intended to apply to all genders.)
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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Accountant - a term used by some players for bookmaker, i.e., bookie.
Accumulator - a combination or multiple wager on two or more races, with the intention of using winnings garnered on the first race to wager on the following race, and so on. Rather than collecting winnings, this player is "letting his winnings ride" or "parlaying" them.
To win an accumulator, each selection must win. If a race is tied, postponed or cancelled, the accumulator is automatically reduced by one selection. For example, a double parlay becomes a straight bet; a triple parlay becomes a double. The odds of winning an accumulator are much lower than a straight bet but the player will reap huge dividends on a win. Also see Parlay.
Ace - used to describe a person who is trustworthy.
AFC - an acronym for the American Football Conference in the National Football League (NFL).
Across The Board (ATB) – Choosing a selection to win, place and show in a single designated race. The total wager costs three times a single bet. If the selection wins, the player collects on all three wagers. If it places second, the player collects on the place and show bets. If it finishes third, the player collects only the show bet.
Action – a wager is deemed "action" once it is valid. An example of "no action" would be a baseball game being rained out in the first inning, rendering it invalid. Also, referring to the total amount wagered within a specific time period. For example, 10 bets of $20 each amounts to $200 in action.
Agent - a middleman who places players into a sportsbook for a commission.
Ahead - a point during play where the player is winning, i.e., the value of his wins exceeds his losses.
Ajax – UK term for betting tax.
Also-Ran - a horse that finishes a race out of the money, i.e., a horse that doesn't win, place or show.
American Line - a hockey line expressed as goals (as opposed to a money line).
Angle - any questionable deception or ruse by a player to unduly influence the outcome and thereby increase his expectations. A player with an angle, even though technically legal, is not often welcome among polite company.
Ante Post - a wager on a future event that is made prior to the scheduled day of the event. The player making the ante post often receives better odds but risks losing his stake if his selection drops out or the event is cancelled.
Apron - an area located next to the racetrack where players may watch racing up close and in person. A fenceline separates the apron from the actual racing surface.
Arbitrage - a variation in odds that enables a player to back both sides and guarantee a win.
ARCI - an acronym for Association of Racing Commissioners International, Inc., based in Lexington, Kentucky.
