A to Z of iGaming & UK Casino Terms in 2025

Last Updated on 30 May 2025 by Casinos etc.

The Complete List of Online Casino Jargon Explained

The world of UK online casinos is packed with terminology that might seem overwhelming at first – especially with 2025’s new regulations and trends in full swing. If you’re new to the scene or simply brushing up on the latest lingo, this guide breaks down the most important casino and iGaming terms, with a UK-focused lens.

This glossary covers general casino terms, game types, regulatory bodies, business jargon, and key industry idioms – all tailored to UK players and updated for 2025.

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General iGaming & Casino Terms

• iGaming: Umbrella term for all forms of online gambling – from slots and sports betting to poker, bingo, and lotteries.
• RNG (Random Number Generator): Used in slots and digital table games to ensure results are fair and random. See our full guide on how RNG works in online casinos.
• RTP (Return to Player): A percentage indicating how much a game pays back to players over time. Learn more in our article on RTP and its role in UK casino games.
• House Edge: The built-in advantage the casino holds over the player – the opposite of RTP.
• Bankroll: The amount of money you’ve set aside for gambling.
• Wager / Stake / Bet: Different terms for the amount you put on the line in a game or spin.
• Jackpot: The top prize available – can be fixed or progressive (where it grows until someone wins it).
• Playthrough / Wagering Requirement: How many times a bonus must be played before withdrawal. Find out more in our explainer on casino bonus terms and wagering rules.
• Bonus: Promotions like welcome bonuses, no deposit offers, and free spins. Explore the best offers on our UK casino bonuses page.
• High Roller / Whale: Players who wager large amounts and often receive VIP perks.
• VIP & Loyalty Programs: Schemes that reward regular play with points, bonuses, or gifts.
• Live Casino: Real-time games with live dealers streamed to your device. Browse the best live dealer casinos in the UK.
• Mobile Gambling: Playing via your phone or tablet – see our list of the top-rated UK casino apps.

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Casino Terms & Game Types: Quick Definitions

• Slots: The most popular category – from fruit machines to Megaways and jackpot games. Visit our overview of online slots in the UK.
• Blackjack: Card game where you try to beat the dealer by getting closest to 21. Find options at top UK blackjack casinos.
• Roulette: Wager on where the ball will land on the spinning wheel – explore different versions at our UK roulette casinos guide.
• Baccarat: Compare hands between player and banker. Simple to learn and widely available. Read more at UK baccarat casino sites.
• Craps: Dice game popular in live casinos – learn more in our craps game breakdown.
• Sic Bo: Another dice-based game, often with fast-paced live dealer versions – see our full guide to Sic Bo in UK casinos.
• Poker: Includes everything from video poker and casino hold’em to live tables like Caribbean Stud and Three Card Brag.
• Bingo & Slingo: Hugely popular in the UK – check out our picks for bingo casinos and Slingo games.
• Game Shows: Live games based on TV-style formats such as Crazy Time and Monopoly Live – find them at the best game show casinos.
• Scratch Cards: Instant win games available at several sites – explore our list of UK scratch card casinos.
• Keno: Lottery-style game with a long history – check out our picks for UK keno casinos.
• Sportsbook & Betting: Most UK casino brands also offer full sports betting services including virtuals and live odds.

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Common Player Casino Terms

• KYC (Know Your Customer): A legal requirement for identity verification – see our guide on KYC in UK casinos.
• Affordability Checks: Introduced in the Gambling Act 2025, these assessments ensure players can afford their gambling. Read about the impact of financial risk checks in UK casinos.
• Self-Exclusion: A responsible gambling measure that blocks access to licensed sites. Learn about UK self-exclusion tools and support services.

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Industry & Regulatory Casino Terms (UK Focus)

• UK Gambling Commission (UKGC): The primary regulatory body for gambling in Great Britain. It oversees licensing, player protection, and compliance. Explore our picks for the top UKGC-licensed casinos.
• Gambling Act 2005: The main law governing UK gambling. Updated in 2025 to better cover online gambling, affordability checks, and safer gaming practices.
• Statutory Levy: A mandatory contribution from operators to fund gambling harm research, education, and treatment – part of the 2025 reforms.
• Advertising Standards Authority (ASA): Regulates UK gambling adverts. Operators must follow strict rules to avoid targeting vulnerable audiences.
• Malta Gaming Authority (MGA): A respected global regulator, though not valid for UK-facing operators post-Brexit.
• Testing Agency: Independent labs that certify the fairness and safety of casino games, such as eCOGRA and iTech Labs.
• Regulated Market: A jurisdiction where gambling is fully licensed and legally monitored – like the UK.
• Grey Market: Gambling activity exists but is not clearly legal or illegal. Riskier for players.
• Unregulated Market: No licensing or player protections. Avoid these sites if you’re based in the UK.

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Business & Operational Jargon

• Operator: The company running a gambling platform. Well-known UK operators include Entain, 888 Holdings, and Kindred Group.
• Affiliate: Websites like Casinos etc. that review, promote, and link to casinos in exchange for commission. Learn more on our UK casino reviews page.
• White Label Solution: A ready-made casino product that can be rebranded and operated by different license holders. Popular among new UK-facing brands.
• GGR (Gross Gaming Revenue): The total amount wagered by players minus any winnings paid out.
• NGR (Net Gaming Revenue): GGR minus taxes, fees, bonuses, and operational costs – essentially, the casino’s actual profit.
• Yield Management: Adjusting promos or game pricing depending on user demand – similar to airline or hotel pricing models.

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Common Gambling Idioms & Sayings

• Ace in the hole: A hidden advantage or unexpected winning card.
• All bets are off: A situation that has become unpredictable or chaotic.
• Bet the farm: To risk everything on one wager or decision.
• Down to the wire: An event or game that goes right to the very end.
• Hit the jackpot: Achieve a big win – or figuratively, major success.
• In the cards: Something that seems likely or destined to happen.
• Luck of the draw: Something determined purely by chance or randomness.

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Key UK Gambling Organisations

UK Gambling Commission (UKGC): Oversees all gambling operations in Great Britain and enforces licensing conditions. Trusted by players and regulators worldwide.

GamCare: Offers practical support, helplines, and treatment services for players struggling with gambling. Visit their site or call 0808 8020 133.

BeGambleAware: The national campaign promoting safer gambling. Commonly featured in casino footer links, bonus terms, and advertising.

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That’s the full glossary of the most common casino terms. Now that you’ve got the lingo down, explore our expert breakdowns of UK casino sites, dive into our favourite picks for top slots selections, or get to know the software providers behind your favourite games.