Dice games have been played for many centuries, and over time, a specific set of terms and expressions has developed around them. Whether used in casual settings or more formal games, these nicknames and phrases have become a familiar part of how players describe different dice rolls and outcomes.
This blog post outlines some of the most common nicknames for dice rolls, explains the terminology used in various games, and highlights a selection of well-known expressions that have been associated with dice play over the years.
Read on to learn more.
When dice are involved, players often rely on shared terms to keep everything clear. A roll—sometimes called a throw—is the act of sending the dice across the table, and the numbers that appear once they come to rest form the total.
The person handling the dice might have a special name depending on the game. In one of the most well-known dice games, craps, that person is referred to as the shooter. You may also hear of a come-out roll—a first throw that sets the direction for the rest of the round. What follows from there depends on the numbers rolled.
Pairs and doubles are another common topic. When both dice show the same number, the total takes on a distinct meaning. This leads to the idea of hard and easy totals. Doubles create a hard total, while two different numbers adding up to the same sum create an easy total.
If you take part, knowing these terms can help you follow the table. Always remember to play responsibly and set personal limits.
Many totals in dice games have earned their own nicknames, particularly in the fast-paced environment of a craps table. These quick calls help dealers and players track outcomes immediately.
The smallest total, made with 1 and 1, is often called Snake Eyes. Slightly higher, 1 and 2 create Ace Deuce. Together with twelve, these form a small group often mentioned as the craps numbers.
A total of four demonstrates the hard-versus-easy distinction. Rolled as 2 and 2, it’s known as Little Joe—a hard four. Rolled as 1 and 3, it’s called an easy four. The number five often goes by Fever Five, a nickname that has persisted due to its lively sound.
Six and eight follow the same pattern. A 3 and 3 is a Hard Six, while 1 and 5 or 2 and 4 create an easy six. Similarly, 4 and 4 make a Hard Eight, while 5 and 3 form an easy eight. Ten also uses the same approach: double fives make a Hard Ten, while other combinations reach it the easy way.
Seven is notable on its own. Many players use the substitute name Big Red to prevent confusion. In some games, seven or eleven on the come-out roll are referred to as naturals. Eleven itself also has a nickname—Yo or Yo-eleven—to distinguish it quickly from seven.
Finally, 6 and 6—the total of twelve—is known as Boxcars or Midnight. It is a striking conclusion to the list and has remained part of dice table language for decades.
Dice tables are full of short sayings that may add energy to the action. Some sound casual, others more traditional, but all contribute to the table’s atmosphere.
The simplest expression is “roll the dice”—a signal that it is time to throw. “Let it roll” indicates the play continues, while “shoot the dice” focuses on the action itself. When a player is about to throw, you might hear “here comes the shooter.”
Certain phrases are linked to totals. During a come-out roll, calls for seven or eleven may occur, though some prefer to say Big Red instead of naming seven directly. Hosts or dealers often use cues such as “dice are out” to indicate the next throw is active. “No more bets” signals that all wagers should now be placed before the result.
When playing online, many of the same expressions appear. The digital environment may replace chips and physical dice with buttons and screens, but the calls, results, and community spirit remain similar. Always play responsibly, take breaks, and step away if you need to.
If you decide to take part, it’s important to keep track of how long you play and how much you spend. Setting personal limits before starting helps you stay within what feels comfortable. Many licensed operators provide tools such as deposit limits, time reminders, and account history—these can be useful for maintaining balance and awareness.
Remember that play should remain a form of entertainment. If it ever stops feeling that way, or if you notice it affecting other areas of life, support is available. Organisations such as GambleAware and GamCare offer free, confidential advice and practical guidance.
If you’re interested in exploring online dice games, we at Mr Luck offer a licensed and regulated platform where you can discover a variety of titles. Our site operates under a UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) licence, and all games are independently tested to ensure fairness.
You’ll find a mix of dice-focused games, such as Lightning Dice, Dice Dice Dice, and Dice City. We also host classic tables, including baccarat, roulette, and blackjack, available in both Random Number Generator (RNG) and live dealer formats, along with a broad selection of slots.
We’re committed to supporting responsible play. Our platform includes tools that allow you to set limits, take breaks, and review your activity whenever you wish, helping you keep play in line with your personal approach.
If you’d like to see what we offer at Mr Luck, feel free to create an account, deposit some funds and take a look around.
**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.