Betting Glossary.

A team's record against the point spread, as opposed to their straight-up win-loss record.

The total amount of money set aside specifically for betting.

The final odds or spread before a game starts.

When a team beats the point spread. A -7 favorite covers by winning by more than 7.

A $1,000 bet.

A $100 bet in betting slang.

A mathematical advantage over the sportsbook.

A bet that pays 1-to-1, or +100 in American odds.

The team expected to win, listed with negative odds.

The total amount of money wagered on a game or event.

Betting the opposite side of an existing bet to guarantee profit or minimize loss.

A half-point in the spread, e.g., the .5 in -3.5.

The sportsbook's commission, also called vig. Standard juice is -110.

The most common margins of victory in football: 3 and 7.

The current odds or spread for a game.

When the spread or odds change due to betting action or news.

A supposed guaranteed win. There is no such thing.

Betting both sides of a game at different spreads to win both.

A bet on which team wins outright, with no spread.

A $500 bet.

The true fair odds with the bookmaker's margin removed.

The first spread or odds posted for a game.

A bet on whether the combined score goes over or under a set total.

A bet combining multiple selections. All must win.

A game with no favorite - the spread is 0.

A tie against the spread. Your bet is refunded.

A professional or highly skilled bettor.

A casual or recreational bettor.

Rapid line movement across multiple books, often from syndicate action.

A single bet on one game.

A parlay where you move the spread in your favor.

The combined score line for over/under betting.

The team expected to lose, listed with positive odds.

Your standard bet size, typically 1-2% of bankroll.

Short for vigorish. The sportsbook's commission.