Sportsbook Glossary A-C

A-C | D-F | G-I | J-L | M-O | P-R | S-U | V-Z

Action – this is a bet of any amount on any game.

Added Game – this is when a betting line is added which is not part of the usual Las Vegas rotation posted as an accommodation for customers. They usually involve smaller schools.

ATS – stands for Against the Spread, meaning you are taking points as opposed to betting with the spread. Handicapping previews shows a teams past record ATS to see how frequently they have covered the spread.

Bet – to risk something, ie money on the outcome of a particular event.

Book – short for Sportsbook or any establishment that takes bets on the outcome of sporting events.

Bookie – an individual who accepts bets on the outcome of any event.

Bookmaker – usually known as a Bookie. An individual who accepts bets on the outcome of any event.

Buck – slang term for $100, i.e. which means when you bet a ‘Buck’, you are betting $100.

Buy (point) – means that you can pay more money to receive a half point or more in your favour on a point spread.

Canadian Line – also known as a Puck Line, being a combination of a Point Spread and Moneyline.

Chalk – another slang word for the favourite.

Chalk Player – someone who normally bets on favourites and hardly ever bets on underdogs.

Circled Game – this is a game with lowered betting options and betting limits to reduce betting action on the game, therefore reducing the risk to the bookmaker. This is sometimes also known as a Red Circle box. This usually happens if there is uncertainty in a game due to weather conditions, injuries etc. You can not include in parlays and teaser bets.

Cover – when you win a point spread