Bingo is a popular game enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you’re playing at a local bingo hall or online, understanding the common calls and phrases used in the game can enhance your experience and help you stay on top of the action. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common bingo lingo and what they mean.
The Basics
Before diving into the specific calls and phrases, it’s important to understand the basic structure of a bingo game. Each player is given a card with a grid of numbers. The goal is to mark off numbers on your card as they are called out by the bingo caller. The first player to mark off a predetermined pattern, such as a line or a full card, shouts “Bingo!” to signal their win.
Common Bingo Calls
1. “Two Little Ducks” – This call refers to the number 22, as the shape of the number resembles two little ducks side by side.
2. “Clickety-Click” – This call is used for the number 66, as the repetition of the digit sounds like a clickety-click sound.
3. “Legs Eleven” – This call refers to the number 11, as the shape of the number resembles a pair of legs.
4. “Two Fat Ladies” – This call is used for the number 88, as the shape of the number resembles two larger ladies standing next to each other.
5. “Top of the Shop” – This call is used for the number 90, as it is the highest number in the game.
Regional Variations
It’s worth noting that some calls and phrases may vary depending on the region or country where the game is being played. For example, in the United States, the number 7 is often called “Lucky Seven,” while in the United Kingdom, it is referred to as “One Little Crutch.”
Other Bingo Terms
In addition to the number calls, there are other common phrases and terms used in the game:
- Full House: This term refers to marking off all the numbers on your bingo card to win the game.
- Line: A line is a horizontal, vertical, or diagonal row of marked-off numbers on the bingo card.
- Dauber: A dauber is a special marker used to mark off numbers on the bingo card.
- Jackpot: The jackpot is the highest prize in a bingo game, usually awarded for achieving a full house within a certain number of calls.
Understanding the common calls and phrases used in bingo can enhance your enjoyment of the game. Whether it’s the quirky number calls or the other terms associated with bingo, knowing the lingo will help you stay engaged and participate fully. So, the next time you play bingo, listen out for these calls and enjoy the excitement of the game!
