The Sic Bo Glossary: From Ancient Slang to Modern Tech

Sic Bo is a game of Chinese origin, and its terminology reflects a blend of ancient Cantonese roots and modern casino jargon. In 2026, whether you’re playing at a physical “Birdcage” table or a high-definition “Live Studio,” knowing the lingo is key to following the action.

General Terms

• Banker: The dealer or the house. In some live 2026 variants, the dealer is also referred to as the “Host.”
• The Chest (or Cage): The device used to shake the three dice. Historically a literal cage, in 2026 it is usually an electronic, sealed glass dome.
• Dai Siu (大細): The Cantonese name for Sic Bo, literally meaning “Big Small.”
• Hi-Lo: A common Western nickname for the game, focusing on its most popular betting options.
• Precious Dice: The literal English translation of the name “Sic Bo” (色寶).
• Tai Sai (大小): Another traditional name for the game, meaning “Lucky Dice” or “Big Small.”

Betting Slang & Definitions

• Any Triple: A bet that all three dice will show the same number, regardless of which number it is (e.g., any set from 1-1-1 to 6-6-6).
• Big: A wager that the total sum of the three dice will be between 11 and 17.
• Bones: A common slang term for the dice themselves.
• Combination (or Domino): A bet that two specific, different numbers will appear among the three dice (e.g., a 2 and a 4).
• Double: A bet that at least two of the three dice will show a specific nominated number (e.g., two 5s).
• Even Money: A bet that pays back the same amount you wagered (1:1), like the Big and Small bets.
• One of a Kind (Single Number): A bet on a specific number (1–6) appearing on at least one die.
• Small: A wager that the total sum of the three dice will be between 4 and 10.
• Specific Triple (The “House” Bet): A bet on a specific three-of-a-kind (e.g., exactly three 2s). This is the highest-paying bet on the board.
• Triple Rule: The rule stating that if any triple rolls, all “Even Money” bets (Big/Small, Even/Odd) lose automatically.

2026 Modern & Digital Terms

• Golden Multiplier: A random payout boost applied to specific betting spots in modern “Lightning” or “Mega” variants.
• Hot Zone: A digital overlay on the table layout that highlights bets currently boosted by random multipliers.
• The Shaker: The mechanical device that vibrates the platform to roll the dice.
• Sucker Bet: Slang for bets with an extremely high house edge, such as specific totals of 4 or 17 without a multiplier.
• True Odds: The actual mathematical probability of a result, which is usually higher than the casino’s “Payout Odds” (the difference creates the House Edge).