The word casino is used in many different contexts, describing gambling establishments where people can play various games of chance for money. It is also sometimes used to refer to a game of chance itself, such as blackjack or roulette. The term can also refer to an organisation that organizes casino-style events, such as concerts or sports matches.
Casinos are also a common feature in resorts, hotels, and other leisure facilities, and they can be found worldwide. They often combine entertainment and gambling with retail shops, restaurants, and other attractions. They may also be combined with luxury facilities such as spas and nightclubs.
The OED lists four meanings for casino, one of which is labelled obsolete:
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2. Casino: (plural: ca*si*nos): a building or large room in which gambling games are played.
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3. Casino: a building or large room for gambling and other recreational activities.
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Modern casinos employ a variety of security measures, including cameras and guards. They also monitor player activity closely and enforce rules of conduct and behavior. For example, players at card games are required to keep their cards visible at all times. Some casinos also offer traditional Far Eastern games, such as sic bo, fan-tan, and pai-gow. These games are not widely available in American casinos, but are popular in Europe, where they were first introduced during the 1990s. In addition, some casinos provide a range of other gambling products, such as lottery tickets and sports betting.