Glossary
Plain-English casino glossary
These are the terms that show up most often in casino comparisons, welcome offer descriptions and operator communications — explained the way they actually work, not the way a brochure would frame them.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
An independent service that handles disputes between players and operators when the operator's own complaints process has been exhausted. UKGC-licensed operators are required to use an approved ADR provider. The operator's website must name which ADR scheme they use.
Bet
A stake placed on a game outcome. In casino contexts this usually refers to a single round of a slot or a hand at a table game. The term 'wager' is often used interchangeably.
Bonus Spins / Free Spins
Spins on a slot machine that don't require a cash stake per spin. Free spins are usually restricted to specific games, come with a wagering requirement on any winnings, and may have a maximum win cap. The number of spins and their value should be in the offer's terms.
Cashback
A promotion where a percentage of net losses over a period is returned to the player's account. Cashback terms vary — some are returned as cash (withdrawable), others as bonus funds with wagering requirements attached.
Evolution Gaming
One of the world's largest live casino software studios. If an operator says it offers live casino powered by Evolution, that means you're playing against real dealers streamed from professional studios. Evolution runs most of the major live casino titles (Lightning Roulette, Crazy Time, Infinite Blackjack, etc.).
Game Contribution Rate
The percentage by which different game types count towards clearing a wagering requirement. Slots often count at 100%, while table games like blackjack might count at 10% or not at all. Always check the full bonus terms, not just the headline wagering figure.
GamStop
The UK's free national self-exclusion register. Registering at gamstop.co.uk bars you from all participating UKGC-licensed operators for a minimum of six months. All UKGC-licensed casinos must participate and check GamStop at registration.
House Edge
The mathematical advantage the casino holds over the player, expressed as a percentage. A 2% house edge means the casino expects to keep £2 for every £100 wagered over the long run. It doesn't determine individual session results, but it means losses are the statistically expected outcome over time.
KYC (Know Your Customer)
The identity and age verification process all UKGC-licensed operators must conduct. You'll typically provide a photo ID (passport or driving licence) and sometimes proof of address. Operators cannot legally allow gambling until KYC is completed.
Live Casino
Casino games run by human dealers, streamed in real time to your device from a professional studio or real casino floor. Common titles include live blackjack, live roulette and live baccarat. Quality and table variety differ significantly between operators.
Maximum Win Cap
A limit on the amount you can win from bonus funds or free spins before being able to withdraw. A £100 cap means even if your bonus play generates £500, only £100 can be converted to withdrawable cash.
RNG (Random Number Generator)
Software that produces random outcomes in digital casino games — slots, virtual roulette, digital blackjack. UKGC-licensed operators must use certified RNGs to ensure fair play. RNG games are distinct from live casino games, which use physical equipment.
RTP (Return to Player)
The percentage of total stakes a game returns to players over a very large number of spins or rounds — a long-run statistical figure, not a guarantee for any given session. A 96% RTP slot theoretically returns £96 per £100 wagered across millions of spins. Individual sessions can vary wildly.
Time-Out
A temporary break from gambling set at account level — typically ranging from 24 hours to several weeks. During a time-out you cannot access your account. Unlike GamStop, time-outs are set with individual operators and don't cover other sites.
UKGC (UK Gambling Commission)
The independent regulator for commercial gambling in Great Britain. Operators must hold a valid UKGC licence to legally offer gambling services to UK customers. You can verify any operator's licence at gamblingcommission.gov.uk.
Volatility (Variance)
A measure of how a slot pays out — high volatility means infrequent but larger wins; low volatility means more frequent but smaller ones. High-volatility slots can go long stretches without paying, which means your bankroll needs to stretch further to see the feature rounds.
Wagering Requirement (Playthrough)
The number of times you must bet a bonus before any winnings from it become withdrawable. A 30x requirement on a £10 bonus means you need to wager £300 total before you can withdraw. This is one of the most important terms to check in any welcome offer.
Welcome Offer
A promotional structure available to new customers, typically on their first deposit or registration. Common formats include a percentage deposit match, bonus spins, or a combination. Always read the full terms — wagering requirements, game restrictions, time limits and maximum win caps all apply.