When you hear someone shout out monkey in blackjack, it is likely they mean to indicate that they are hoping for a face card or ten value card. This type of hand is highly desirable in blackjack as it increases a player’s chances of getting closer to 21 and winning the game. The origin of the term monkey is not entirely clear, but it has become a standard part of blackjack terminology.
In general, the word monkey is used to denote any card with a value of ten in blackjack, including Jacks, Queens, and Kings. It may also be used to refer to a specific hand that contains three face cards. In either case, it is an important part of blackjack terminology and understanding it will help you play the game more effectively.
It is unknown exactly why these cards are referred to as monkeys in blackjack, but there are several theories. One possibility is that it is a reference to a popular French gambling game called Vingt-et-Un (Twenty-one). In this game, a monkey was a unit of currency worth 21 francs. Another theory is that the term monkey comes from military slang. In the past, soldiers would often refer to heavy equipment as monkeys because they were difficult to move and required significant effort, much like a hand with three face cards.
A final theory is that the word monkey is a corruption of the word monarchy. In the past, many Asian players would yell monarchy when they were hoping for a particular card. Over time, this became shortened to monkey as the expression was adopted by players in other countries.
You will likely hear this slang in blackjack tournaments and at high-end casinos, where experienced players use it to show that they have a good understanding of the game. It is not as common in low-cost casinos or at home games, where slang can be misunderstood by less-experienced players.
While this slang may seem a bit silly, it is actually very useful to players who are looking to improve their chances of winning at blackjack. By learning this jargon, you will be able to understand when other players are talking about certain strategies and tactics in the game. You will also be able to communicate better with your fellow players and dealers.
Whether you are a casual player or an expert, it is important to know the terminology of blackjack. By understanding the meaning behind slang terms such as monkey, you will be able to improve your game and increase your odds of winning. So next time you are playing with friends, be sure to ask what they mean when they say monkey! You will be surprised at how much more fun the game can be when you know the lingo! Happy playing!
