If you’ve ever been to a casino or played live dealer games online, you may have heard the word croupier. But what does it mean? And what does a croupier actually do? Let’s break it down.
Where Does the Word “Croupier” Come From?
The word croupier comes from the French word “croupe,” which means the back of a horse. Originally, a croupier was someone who sat behind a rider.
Later, the word was used to describe:
- A person standing behind the banker in a card game, calling out the cards.
- Someone helping a gambler at a table.
Today, the meaning is different—but still connected to gambling.
What Does a Croupier Do in a Casino?
A croupier is the person running a casino table game like blackjack, roulette, or craps. They take bets, pay winnings, and make sure the game runs smoothly.
But you may have noticed that in some games, people say “dealer” instead. So, is there a difference?
Croupier vs. Dealer: What’s the Difference?
- A croupier manages any casino table game, including card games and non-card games like roulette and craps.
- A dealer is a type of croupier, but the word is mostly used for card games like blackjack, baccarat, and poker.
So, all dealers are croupiers, but not all croupiers are dealers!
Skills You Need to Be a Croupier
If you want to work as a croupier, here are some important skills:
- Good People Skills: You’ll talk to all kinds of players—some winning, some losing. You need to stay friendly, professional, and calm no matter the situation.
- Professional Attitude: Casinos are fast-paced. Staying professional helps everything run smoothly and makes sure players have a great experience.
- Know the Game Rules: Whether it’s blackjack, roulette, or craps, you must know the rules inside and out. Players will ask questions, and you need to have the answers.
- Quick Math Skills: You have to calculate bets and payouts fast. Being able to do math quickly in your head is a must.
- Stay Focused for Long Hours: Croupiers often work long shifts, including nights and weekends. You need to stay sharp and make sure every game runs correctly.
FAQ
What’s the difference between a dealer and a croupier?
A dealer focuses on the game, especially card games, while a croupier handles the entire table, including bets and payouts.
What does a croupier do in a casino?
A croupier runs the game, takes bets, pays winnings, and makes sure everything is fair.
Do croupiers make good money?
Yes! In places like Las Vegas, tips can add $20,000–$30,000 per year, making total earnings between $40,000 and $70,000 or more.
What is a casino tip called?
Tips in casinos are called “tokes”. They are shared among staff like dealers, cocktail servers, and chip runners.
