EN 
DE Fade
In casino gambling, “fade” is a slang term that means to bet against another person. In craps, it always means betting against the shooter, the player who is rolling the dice, instead of betting on that shooter to win. A player may hear this word at live craps tables, in private dice games, and in discussions of betting strategy.
How It Works
Craps lets players bet either with the shooter or against the shooter. When someone fades the shooter in a casino, they do this by using Don’t Pass and Don’t Come bets. Those wagers win when the shooter fails to make the point, which is the target number set after the first roll.
Rather than memorizing every rule, a beginner can think of fading in simple steps:
- The shooter makes the come-out roll and may set a point.
- Another player places a Don’t Pass bet to fade the shooter.
- If a point is set, that player now wants a 7 instead of the point number.
- The Don’t Pass bet wins when a 7 appears before the point.
In private or street dice games, the word is even more direct. One person offers a bet on the dice, and another gambler “fades” it by putting up the same amount on the opposite side.
Example in a Casino
A player buys in for $100 at a crowded craps table, where most people are cheering for the shooter and betting on the Pass Line. This player prefers the opposite side of the action, so they place $10 on Don’t Pass before the come-out roll. The shooter rolls a 9, which becomes the point, and the fading player now wants any 7 before another 9\. After a few rolls, a 7 appears, and the Don’t Pass bet pays, even though many other bets on the layout lose.
Why It Matters
Knowing the word “fade” helps a beginner follow fast table talk and dealer instructions. When someone says they are fading the shooter, it simply means they want the opposite of what most players around them want, not that they are using a hidden trick or special bet. The term also ties into basic strategy, because Don’t Pass and Don’t Come bets have a slightly lower house edge than many other options on the table.
Common Mistakes
New gamblers sometimes misread the term and create problems for themselves. A few simple reminders keep things clear.
- Treating “fade” as a special side bet instead of a general way to describe betting against another person.
- Thinking that fading changes the dice odds, when it only changes which numbers are good or bad for the player.
FAQ
Is “fade” only used in craps?
No. Dice players use it most in craps and similar games, but gamblers also talk about “fading” teams or handicappers in sports betting when they bet against their picks.
Does a player need to say the word “fade” at the table?
No. In a regulated casino, a player simply places chips on Don’t Pass or Don’t Come, and the dealers know that this means they are betting against the shooter. The word itself is mostly casual talk among gamblers.
Can someone fade the shooter in online craps?
Yes. Many online casinos offer digital or live-dealer craps where the same rules apply, so clicking on Don’t Pass or Don’t Come has the same “fade” meaning. The screen may not use the word, but the idea behind the bet is identical.
