Monkey Meaning in Blackjack: Guide to Monkey Betting Slang
If you’ve ever listened to conversations at a blackjack table, you might have come across the term “monkey” and wondered what it means. Understanding this piece of slang can make it easier to follow the chat around the table and may add a little extra colour to the game.
The term “monkey” often comes up at specific moments during a hand and has even found its way into other casino games. In this blog post, we’ll explain what “monkey” means, why players use it, and clear up some common misconceptions.
Read on to find out more.
What Does the Term “Monkey” Mean in Blackjack?
At blackjack tables, “monkey” is a nickname for cards that carry a value of ten points. This includes the 10, jack, queen, and king. Since these cards share the same point value, players sometimes group them together under this one term.
If you’re playing and hoping for a ten-value card, someone might say “monkey” aloud. For example, if a player has doubled down on 11, they might really want a ten next to bring their total to 21. It’s important to understand that this term is just part of the table talk—it doesn’t influence what card is dealt.
Once you know what “monkey” refers to, it’s easier to see why the term pops up in certain situations.
Why Do Players Shout “Monkey” at the Table?
You might notice “monkey” being called out when a ten-value card could change the course of the hand. Some typical scenarios include:
- A player holding an ace hoping to draw a ten to make blackjack.
- Someone who has doubled down on 11 aiming for a strong total with the next card.
- When the dealer has a total where drawing a ten might cause them to bust.
In these cases, shouting “monkey” is a playful way to highlight the moment’s tension and excitement. It’s part of the game’s social side rather than a tactic that affects the outcome, which is always decided by the dealing and the rules.
Monkey Betting Slang and Its Link to Card Values
The nickname sticks around because ten-value cards play a significant role in blackjack. Since 10, jack, queen, and king make up four of the thirteen ranks, roughly three out of every ten cards in a new deck carry that value. This frequency shapes many player choices, such as when to hit, stand, or double down.
Using “monkey” makes it quicker and easier for players to refer to this group of cards without naming each one individually. When a dealer is drawing, a simple “monkey” can quickly express what the table is hoping to see.
It’s worth noting that “monkey” is just shorthand for the cards themselves and isn’t connected to any betting system or special approach.
Is “Monkey” Used in Other Casino Games?
While “monkey” is mostly used in blackjack, you might also hear it in baccarat. There, the 10, jack, queen, and king all have a value of zero. Some players jokingly call these “monkeys” and might cheer when one of these cards helps keep a hand total unchanged or influences the outcome in their favour.
Outside of card games where tens and face cards matter, the term doesn’t really appear. Games like roulette, craps, or slots have their own unique vocabulary since card values aren’t part of the gameplay.
If you decide to try a new game, you’ll likely encounter fresh terms and slang. Learning them can make following the action easier and conversations more enjoyable.
Common Myths About Monkey Betting Slang
Several misunderstandings surround the word “monkey”. One myth is that saying it out loud somehow changes the next card to appear. This isn’t true—the shuffle, dealing procedure, and rules determine what happens.
Another misconception is that “monkey” is insider jargon only for seasoned players. In fact, anyone might use it, from beginners to regulars, as it’s simply a nickname for ten-value cards.
Some also mistakenly believe it’s part of a secret strategy or system. It isn’t. Success in blackjack comes from understanding the rules and the specific situation in the hand. Also, keeping comments friendly and respectful is appreciated by dealers and fellow players alike.
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**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.