What are sports bets called? If you’ve ever sat with your mates on a weekend, someone’s probably said they’re “having a punt” or “lumping on a double”, and you might’ve nodded along without really knowing what they meant. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Sports betting has its own language, and it can sound like total gibberish if you’re just starting out. But once you get the hang of a few key terms, it all starts to click. So if you’ve ever wondered what bets are actually called or what the bookie’s banging on about, this guide’s got you covered.
From seasoned punters to beginners placing their first bets, knowing what different types of sports bets are called can make a big difference. Betting has become part of everyday sports culture, from pub chats to pundit panels, but the lingo can still be confusing if you’re new to it. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to sharpen your betting know-how, learning the language used by bookmakers and bettors alike is a smart first step.
What are sports bets called? Betting lingo is everywhere now
Betting is no longer just for a select few — it’s now part of regular matchday conversations, TV punditry, and social media threads. But if you don’t know the difference between a “punt” and a “lay,” or can’t tell who the “bookie” is, you might be missing out. This article breaks down common terms, slang words, and nicknames used in sports betting across the UK.
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What do gamblers say in slang?
In British betting slang, a “punt” means a bet. The person placing it is often called a “punter.” You might also hear phrases like “having a flutter” (placing a small bet for fun) or “lump on” (betting big on a single outcome). These expressions are widely used at the races, in pubs, and on betting apps.
What is the slang word for a bet?
Besides “punt” and “flutter,” a single bet is sometimes casually called a “wager” or a “tickle.” In horse racing, you might hear someone say they’ve had “a few quid on a nag” — a humorous way of saying they’ve placed a bet on a horse.
What do gamblers call their money?
Gamblers often refer to money with casual terms like “quid,” “dosh,” or “bankroll.” In betting circles, your “bankroll” is the amount of money you’ve set aside for placing bets. Keeping track of it is seen as part of betting responsibly.
What do you call someone who bets on sports?
Someone who places bets is a “punter.” If they do it regularly or professionally, they might be called a “gambler” or a “bettor.” On the other hand, the person or company taking the bet — the bookmaker — is often referred to as the “bookie.”
What are silly or unusual bets called?
Odd or humorous bets are often called “novelty bets” or “specials.” These include bets on events like who will win a reality TV show or what colour tie a manager might wear. They’re popular during major tournaments or cultural events, especially when people want something light-hearted to punt on.
What do you call a person who takes bets?
The person or platform offering odds and taking bets is the bookmaker, or “bookie.” In most cases, this is a licensed company, whether it’s a high-street brand like Ladbrokes or an online sportsbook like Bet365.
What are betting winnings called?
Winnings are simply referred to as “returns” or “payouts.” If you’ve had a big win, you might hear someone say you’ve “cleaned up” or “hit the jackpot.” On the other hand, if a bet loses, punters might say they’ve “done their dough.”
What are two bets called?
When you combine two bets into one, it’s often called a double. If both parts win, you get a higher payout than if you’d placed them separately. Go further, and three bets become a treble, while four or more fall into accumulator territory.
What is the most bet on sport?
In the UK, football is the most bet on sport by far. Premier League matches attract millions in weekly wagers. Horse racing, boxing, and tennis also pull in large volumes, especially during major tournaments or festivals like Cheltenham and Wimbledon.
Is gambling a sin?
While some religious groups consider gambling morally wrong, most UK punters see it as entertainment — especially when done responsibly. Betting is legal and regulated in the UK, and most sportsbooks now promote safer gambling practices, such as setting limits and taking breaks.
Betting is more than luck, it’s also language
If you’re just getting into betting or looking to brush up your knowledge, understanding the words punters use is a good first step. Knowing the lingo helps you spot value, avoid confusion, and enjoy the betting experience with confidence.
