What Is Sando in Gambling?
If you’ve ever seen or heard someone refer to a “sando” during a casino game or slot play, you might be wondering what it means.
Gambling can come with a whole range of informal terms that aren’t always easy to figure out. Understanding a few of these phrases can make conversations in betting shops, online communities or even social media feel more familiar.
This blog explores what a “sando” means, where the phrase came from, and how it can be used in casual gambling talk. Whether you’re curious, or just want to follow along with others more confidently, this guide can help.
Why Gamblers Say Sando
The term “sando” is used informally by some players to describe a small win that feels disappointing.
It’s often used when someone wins, but the amount is so low it doesn’t really help them recover their stake. For example, imagine placing a £5 bet and winning £1 — you’ve technically won something, but it’s far less than what you put in. That’s when a player might say, “I got a sando.”
The phrase comes from a shortened version of “sandwich,” and more specifically, a cleaned-up version of an older expression meaning an underwhelming result.
It was popularised by a Las Vegas-based slot player known online as Vegas Matt. In his videos, he often referred to these disappointing outcomes as “sandos”, and the term caught on among his viewers.
It’s worth knowing that this slang isn’t used in official betting language, and you probably won’t find it in the rules of any casino or bookmaker. Instead, it might pop up in casual discussions, especially around slot games.
Where Sando Slang Comes From
“Sando” isn’t a British betting term with a long history, but more of a recent phrase picked up through online gambling content. It grew in popularity through social media and video content focused on slot machines, particularly in the United States. Over time, some UK players who follow similar online communities have also adopted it.
Slot games are Random Number Generator (RNG) games, meaning each spin has an unpredictable outcome. Sometimes, the machine lands on a combination that offers a win, but it might be just a fraction of your bet. This can feel like a “tease” or a disappointing payout, and that’s where the term “sando” is often used. It helps express that feeling in a quick, friendly way.
Although it started in US gambling culture, the phrase has crossed over into other spaces where players talk casually about their experiences — often in online forums or live stream chats. It’s not part of traditional British racing or sports betting slang, so not everyone will recognise it.
Other Slang Terms Like Sando
British gambling does have its own informal vocabulary, especially when it comes to talking about money. While “sando” is newer and more niche, some of the following terms have been around for decades:
- Monkey – £500. You might hear this in a phrase like, “I’ve got a monkey on that horse.”
- Pony – £25. A typical example would be, “Lost a pony on the match.”
- Score – £20. For example: “Took a score out after that win.”
- Ton – £100. Someone might say, “I’m down a ton.”
- Carpet – £300. This one’s older and mainly used in horse racing circles.
- Tenner – £10. Common in both sports betting and casino play.
- Bottle – Refers to odds of 2/1. So, if a horse is “bottle”, you might win £2 for every £1 staked.
- Even money – Odds of 1/1. You’d double your money if your bet wins.
- Jolly – The favourite in a race. For instance: “The jolly’s leading at the final turn.”
- Each-way – A type of bet often used in horse racing. It covers two outcomes: if your horse wins or finishes in one of the top places, depending on the bookmaker’s terms.
These expressions often come up in everyday conversation among bettors, especially in high-street betting shops or racing events. If you’re unsure about a term, most staff at licensed venues or online help centres can explain.
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Armed with an understanding of “sando” and other terms, you’re ready to enjoy informed and friendly betting conversations, both in person and online. Please play responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these slot games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**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.