Bunco Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฒ
bunco
[หbสลkoส ]
Definition
gambling game
Bunco is a social dice game, often played in large groups, where players roll dice in teams and attempt to match numbers to win points. The game is generally played in rounds, with players rotating tables after each round. It is known for its easy-to-learn rules, making it a popular choice for casual gatherings. Often played for fun, bunco can also involve betting, making it appealing for those looking for excitement and social engagement.
Synonyms
dice game, party game.
Examples of usage
- We invited our friends over for a bunco night.
- The bunco tournament raised money for charity.
- Every month, the ladies gather for bunco at someone's house.
- Bunco dice games are always filled with laughter.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- During the 1980s, bunco experienced a revival as womenโs social groups embraced it for gatherings and fundraisers.
- There are dedicated bunco nights in many communities, emphasizing social interaction and friendly competition.
- Bunco has inspired themed parties, complete with decorations, costumes, and prizes, reflecting its cultural impact.
Psychology
- Playing bunco fosters social bonding, as the game encourages teamwork and communication among players.
- The thrill of chance in bunco can induce a sense of excitement and can be a relaxing form of entertainment.
- Research suggests that engaging in games like bunco can improve mood and provide a break from daily stressors.
Pop Culture
- Bunco has been featured in various TV shows and movies, often portraying it as a fun social activity among friends.
- In literature, bunco has appeared in detective stories, sometimes linked to schemes or deception among characters.
- Online, bunco has evolved with virtual versions available, allowing people to play together from different locations.
Game Mechanics
- Typically played with 12 or more players divided into teams, transforming a simple dice game into a lively social event.
- Players score points by rolling specific combinations, adding excitement with each turn as they try to outscore opponents.
- Bunco can involve different rounds, with each round focusing on a new number, making it continually engaging.
Origin of 'bunco'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'bunco' is believed to have originated from the Spanish word 'banco', meaning bank, which reflects the gameโs gambling element.
- It's likely derived from an old dice game called 'bunco', which was played in the 19th century in America.
- Bunco was popularized as a social game for women in the late 20th century, turning it into a fun party event.
The term 'bunco' likely originated in the United States in the mid-19th century, though the exact inception is difficult to pinpoint. Some sources suggest that bunco is derived from the Spanish word 'banco', which means 'bank', a term that was associated with various gambling activities. The game gained popularity during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in saloons and parlors. Bunco parties became a social phenomenon in the 1980s and 1990s, transforming into a highly organized social event. Over the years, bunco has evolved from a simple dice game into a popular diversion for large groups, often associated with fundraising and community gatherings. Today, it is celebrated as a lighthearted and engaging party activity, often played in home settings.