Why Is It Called Monkey in Blackjack?

Blackjack, also known as 21, is one of the most popular casino games in the world. It’s a game that requires skill, strategy, and a bit of luck. One of the interesting things about blackjack is that there are many different terms and phrases associated with the game.

One such term is “monkey.” But why is it called monkey in blackjack? Let’s explore.

Firstly, it’s important to note that the term “monkey” is not exclusive to blackjack. It’s actually a slang term used in many different card games to refer to any card with a value of ten. This includes cards such as the ten of hearts, ten of spades, ten of diamonds, and ten of clubs.

In blackjack specifically, the term monkey refers to any face card or any ten-value card. This is because these cards are worth ten points each in the game. So when a player receives a hand with two face cards or two tens, they have what is commonly referred to as a “monkey hand.”

There are several theories as to why these cards came to be known as “monkeys” in blackjack. One theory suggests that it comes from the similarity between the letter “J” and a monkey’s tail. Since face cards are sometimes referred to as “jacks,” this connection could have led to the use of the term.

Another theory suggests that it comes from an old military slang term. In this theory, soldiers would refer to their heavy equipment as “monkeys.” The heavy equipment was difficult to move around and required significant effort, just like getting dealt a hand with two face cards or two tens requires significant effort.

Regardless of its origin, the term monkey has become ingrained in blackjack terminology and is used by players all around the world.

In conclusion, while there may not be a definitive answer as to why face cards and tens are called monkeys in blackjack specifically, it’s clear that the term has become a standard part of the game’s language. Whether you’re a seasoned blackjack player or just starting out, understanding the terminology used in the game is important. So next time you hear someone refer to a “monkey hand,” you’ll know exactly what they mean.