Bones [Meaning] - MasterTerms.com

Bones

Bones refer to the dice used in the game of Craps. In Craps, players bet on the outcome of the roll of the two six-sided dice, often referred to as "bones." The outcome of the dice roll determines the winner, making it a central element of the game.

In a standard game of Craps, players take turns rolling the dice, aiming to hit specific numbers based on their bets. The term “bones” originates from the traditional use of animal bones as dice before the creation of modern plastic dice. Each die has six faces, numbered from one to six, and the combination of the two dice results in totals ranging from two to twelve. The results of the roll dictate various betting outcomes, including whether a player wins, loses, or continues to roll.

Bones Example

For example, if a player bets on the “Pass Line” and the initial roll of the dice is a total of 7 or 11, they win immediately. If the total is 2, 3, or 12, they lose. Any other total becomes the “point,” and the player must roll that same number again before rolling a 7 to win the bet.