Cribbage Terms

Term

Definition

Crib

Four cards (two from each player) set aside for the dealer to score after the dealer's hand

Cut card

(1) The starter card or (2) the card cut by either player at the start of the game or match to determine the dealer

Flush

Four cards of the same suit held in the hand count four points; five cards of the same suit (including the starter card) count five points in the hand or crib

Game hole

Hole number 121

Go

Called by a player who cannot play a card without exceeding the cumulative count of 31; the opponent scores one point, or two if reaching exactly 31

Hand

The six cards dealt to each player or the four cards remaining after discarding to the crib

His heels (nibs)

Jack, when it is the starter card, counts two points for the dealer

His nobs

Jack of the same suit as the starter card, either in the hand or crib, counts one point

Judge

A person authorized by the ACC or the tournament director to answer questions and settle disagreements between players relating to the rules of play

Match

One or more games between two players, the outcome of which is a match winner and a match loser. The play of one or more games between two players during tournament qualification play does not constitute a match.

Peg

(1) A small marker that fits into the holes of a cribbage board and is used for scoring. (2) To record a score by advancing the rear peg in front of the front peg.

Pegging

The recording of scored points by advancing the rear peg in front of the front peg and releasing it.

Score

Any points earned by a player.

Skunk

To win by 31 or more points.

Skunk, double

To win by 61 or more points

Starter card

The card that is cut and placed on the remainder of the pack and is used in counting the value of each hand and the crib

Stink hole

Hole number 120, which is one short of the game hole