Bingo calls: the traditional list of bingo nicknames

Bingo is an entertaining lottery-style game with worldwide appeal. Fabulous, fast, and fun, bingo continues to amaze players everywhere. It’s not just about dabbing called numbers on bingo cards; it’s the amusing bingo calls that keep players on their toes.

Every bingo number has a vivid association, like 22 for two little ducks or 66 for clickety click. When a bingo caller is in full swing, it’s an excellent entertainment experience.

Contrary to popular opinion, bingo calls aren’t about dry-calling numbers and marking cards; it’s perfectly poetic bingo lingo that evokes fabulous imagery, true to the game’s rich history. Let’s roll!

Bingo calls list

1. At the beginning
2. Buckle my shoe
3. Cup of tea
4. Knock at the door
5. Man alive
6. Tom Mix
7. Lucky seven
8. Garden gate
9. Doctor’s orders
10. Justin’s Den
11. Legs eleven
12. One dozen  
13. Unlucky for some
14. Valentine’s Day
15. Young and keen
16. Never been kissed
17. Dancing Queen
18. Coming of age
19. Goodbye teens
20. One score
21. Key to the door
22. Two little ducks
23. Thee and me
24. Two dozen
25. Duck and dive
26. Bed and breakfast
27. Gateway to heaven
28. Overweight
29. Rise and shine
30. Dirty Gertie
31. Get up and run
32. Pat and the shoe
33. All the threes
34. Ask for more
35. Jump and jive
36. Three dozen
37. A flea in heaven
38. Christmas cake
39. Those famous steps
40. Life begins at 40
41. Time for fun
42. Winnie the Pooh
43. Down on your knees
44. Droopy drawers
45. Halfway there
46. Up to tricks
47. Four and seven
48. Four dozen
49. PC
50. Half a century
51. Tweak of the thumb
52. Canadian comedian
53. Here comes Herbie
54. Clean the floor
55. Snakes alive
56. Shotts bus
57. Ketchup on my fries
58. Make them wait
59. Bright and fine
60. Five dozen
61. Tasty poutine
62. Tickety-boo
63. Tickle me, Canada
64. Red maple leaf
65. Old age pension
66. Clickety click
67. Stairway to heaven
68. Saving Grace
69. Hockey stick
70. Three score and ten
71. Canada’s favourite drum
72. Six dozen
73. Queen bee
74. Hit the floor
75. Strive and strive
76. Trombones
77. Hockey heaven
78. 78 ways to score
79. One more time
80. Eight and blank
81. Stop and run
82. Straight on through
83. Time for tea and hockey
84. Seven dozen
85. Staying alive
86. In between the sticks
87. Torquay in Devon
88. Will and Kate 88
89. Almost there
90. Top of the shop

* There are many different bingo lingo terms associated with bingo calls. These represent some of the most popular terms in Canadian bingo rooms.

Bingo calls explained – Here’s where these bingo number names came from

Bingo calls have a fascinating history; many of these terms date back to the 1900s during World War I, World War II, and the post-war period. Since bingo has multiple generations, its storied history is available for generations of players, new and old. So, let’s take a look at the origins of these charming, compelling, and interesting bingo calls.

1. At the beginning
   This call refers to the beginning of a new bingo game and reminds players to keep their cards ready.
2. Buckle my shoe
   This call is a nod to the popular nursery rhyme “One, two, buckle my shoe…” which is often used to teach young children how to count.
3. Cup of tea
   This bingo call is a nod to the popular British pastime of enjoying a cup of tea, which is a favourite drink of many Canadian players as well.
4. Knock at the door
   This call originates from the days when door-to-door salespeople would knock on doors hoping to make a sale.
5. Man alive
   This call is a form of exclamation, often used when something surprising or exciting happens during a bingo game.
6. Tom Mix
   This call refers to Tom Mix, a popular American movie star from the early 1900s known for his cowboy roles.
7. Lucky seven
   Seven is often considered a lucky number, so this call is so popular in bingo and other games of chance.
8. Garden gate
   This call is based on the resemblance of the number 8 to a garden gate.
9. Doctor’s orders
   This call is said to have originated during the days of the British empire when doctors would give out pills in boxes that were divided into nine compartments.
10. Justin’s Den
    This call is a nod to Canada’s current prime minister, Justin Trudeau, and his official residence at 24 Sussex Drive in Ottawa.
11. Legs eleven
    This call refers to the shape of the number 11, which resembles a pair of legs.
12. One dozen
    This call is a simple reference to the number 12.
13. Unlucky for some
    Thirteen is often considered unlucky, so this call is used in bingo and other games of chance.
14. Valentine’s Day
    This call is a reference to February 14th, celebrated as Valentine’s Day in Canada and worldwide.
15. Young and keen
    This call is a reference to the youthfulness and energy of many bingo players.
16. Never been kissed
    This call refers to the age at which many people have their first kiss, which is often around the age of 16.
17. Dancing Queen
    This call references the popular ABBA song “Dancing Queen”, which many bingo players love.
18. Coming of age
    This call is a reference to the age at which young people in many cultures become adults and are granted new privileges and responsibilities.
19. Goodbye, teens
    This call refers to the age at which young people leave their teenage years behind and enter adulthood.
20. One score
    This call is a reference to the number 20, which is one score in traditional English counting.
21. Key to the door
    This call is a reference to the traditional age at which young people in the UK would receive a key to the door of their family home, symbolizing their independence.
22. Two little ducks
    This call refers to the shape of the number 22, which resembles two little ducks swimming side by side.
23. Thee and me
    This call is a reference to the use of the word “thee” in old-fashioned English, which was often used as a form of address between close friends and family members.
24. Two dozen
    This call is a simple reference to the number 24.
25. Duck and dive
    This call reference to the evasive manoeuvres that ducks use to avoid being caught by hunters.
26. Bed and breakfast
    This call is a reference to the cost of a traditional bed and breakfast stay in the UK, which was often 26 shillings.
27. Gateway to heaven
    This call is a reference to the biblical idea of the gates of heaven, which are often depicted as having 27 steps.
28. Overweight
    This call is a humorous reference to the idea that people tend to gain weight as they age.
29. Rise and shine
    This call is a playful way to encourage players to stay alert and focused during a bingo game.
30. Dirty Gertie
    This call is thought to have originated in the UK, where “dirty Gertie” was a slang term for a particularly filthy street or alleyway.
31. Get up and run
    This call is a motivational message for players to stay active and alert during a fast-paced bingo game.
32. Pat and the shoe
    This call is a reference to the popular children’s rhyme “This old man”, which includes the line “knick-knack paddywhack, give a dog a bone, this old man came rolling home”.
33. All the threes
    This call is a reference to the shape of the number 33, which is made up of twice the number three.
34. Ask for more
    This call is a playful reference to the idea that bingo players are always hungry for more chances to win.
35. Jump and jive
    This call is a nod to the lively and upbeat music of the swing era, which was often accompanied by energetic dancing.
36. Three dozen
    This call is a simple reference to the number 36, which is equivalent to three dozen.
37. A flea in heaven
    This call is a humorous reference to the idea that even fleas can find a place in heaven.
38. Christmas cake
    This call is a reference to the traditional British fruitcake that is often served during the Christmas season.
39. Those famous steps
    This call is a playful reference to the idea that everyone is familiar with the famous steps of the bingo hall.
40. Life begins at 40
    This call is a popular saying that suggests that people often experience new opportunities and experiences when they reach the age of 40.
41. Time for fun
    This call is a reminder to players that bingo is meant to be a fun and enjoyable game.
42. Winnie the Pooh
    This call is a reference to the beloved children’s character Winnie the Pooh, who is often associated with sweetness and innocence.
43. Down on your knees
    This call is a reference to the act of kneeling in prayer, which is often associated with humility and reverence.
44. Droopy drawers
    This call is a humorous reference to the idea that some people’s pants may sag or droop as they get older.
45. Halfway there
    This call reminds players that they are halfway through a game of bingo and that there is still plenty of excitement to come.
46. Up to tricks
    This call is a playful way to suggest that someone may be plotting or scheming something devious.
47. Four and seven
    This call is a simple reference to the numbers 4 and 7.
48. Four dozen
    This call is a reference to the number 48, which is equivalent to four dozen.
49. PC
    This call is a playful reference to the idea of being politically correct in today’s society.
50. Half a century
    This call is a playful way to acknowledge that someone or something has reached the age of 50.
51. Tweak of the thumb
    This call is a playful reference to the idea of making small adjustments or changes to something.
52. Canadian comedian
    This call could be updated to reference a well-known Canadian comedian or celebrity that players are familiar with, adding a local touch to the game of bingo.
53. Here comes Herbie
    This call could be a reference to the famous Canadian race car driver Herbie Tobin or another well-known figure with a similar name.
54. Clean the floor
    This call reminds players to keep their area clean and free of clutter during a game of bingo.
55. Snakes alive
    This call is a playful way to express surprise or amazement at something that happened during the game.
56. Shotts bus
    This call is a nod to the small town of Shotts in Scotland, which was once home to a popular bus service.
57. Heinz varieties
    This call is a playful nod to the wide variety of products the famous Heinz food company offers.
58. Make them wait
    This call is a humorous reminder to players that, sometimes, it’s important to keep others waiting in order to build up anticipation and excitement.
59. Brighton line
    This call refers to the Brighton line, a popular railway line connecting various cities and towns in the UK.
60. Five dozen
    This call is a simple reference to the number 60, which is equivalent to five dozen.
61. Baker’s bun
    This call is a playful nod to the idea of baking, which is a popular pastime for many people in Canada.
62. Turn the screw
    This call is a playful reference to the idea of tightening or adjusting something, similar to the earlier “tweak of the thumb” call.
63. Tickle me 63
    This call is a funny way to remind players of the number 63, using a play on words to add a lighthearted touch to the game.
64. Red raw
    This call is a humorous reference to the idea of being sunburned or experiencing some other type of redness or irritation.
65. Old age pension
    This call is a playful reminder to players that they’re not getting any younger and that they should enjoy their golden years while they still can.
66. Clickety click
    This call refers to the sound of a camera shutter and is often used to encourage players to take pictures of their winning cards.
67. Stairway to heaven
    This call is a reference to the idea of ascending to a higher plane or reaching new heights of success and achievement.
68. Saving Grace
    This call is a reference to the concept of divine intervention or a stroke of luck that can save someone from a difficult or dangerous situation.
69. Favourite of mine
    This call is a playful way to acknowledge someone or something that is a personal favourite of the speaker.
70. Three score and ten
    This call is a reference to the biblical idea of the human lifespan, which is often said to be “three score and ten”, or 70 years.
71. Bang on the drum
    This call is a playful way to encourage players to celebrate their wins and enjoy the excitement of the game.
72. Six dozen
    This call is a simple reference to the number 72, equivalent to six dozen.
73. Queen bee
    This call is a playful nod to the idea of royalty and power, using the image of a queen bee to convey a sense of strength and authority.
74. Hit the floor
    This call is a playful way to encourage players to celebrate their wins, often by dancing or jumping up and down with excitement.
75. Strive and strive
    This call is a playful reminder to players that they should never give up on their goals or dreams and that hard work and determination can lead to success.
76. Trombones
    This call is a playful reference to the musical instrument, often associated with jazz and big band music.
77. Sunset strip
    This call is a nod to the famous Sunset strip in Los Angeles, which is known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene.
78. 39 more steps
    This call is a playful reference to the idea of taking things one step at a time and continuing to move forward no matter how difficult the journey may seem.
79. One more time
    This call is a reminder to players that there’s always another chance to win and that persistence and perseverance can pay off in the end.
80. Eight and blank
    This call is a simple reference to the number 80, which is often associated with the idea of completion or finality.
81. Stop and run
    This call is a humorous reference to the idea of being caught in a compromising situation and needing to make a quick escape.
82. Straight on through
    This call is a playful nod to moving forward with confidence and determination without letting obstacles or challenges get in the way.
83. Time for tea
    This call is a nod to the British tradition of taking a tea break, which is often seen as a time to relax and socialize with friends and family.
84. Seven dozen
    This call is a simple reference to the number 84, which is equivalent to seven dozen.
85. Staying alive
    This call is a playful nod to the classic disco hit by the Bee Gees, encouraging listeners to keep dancing and living their best lives.
86. Between the sticks
    This call is a reference to the position of the goalkeeper in soccer or hockey, who stands “between the sticks” or the goalposts.
87. Torquay in Devon
    This call is a nod to Torquay’s popular tourist destination in Devon, known for its beautiful coastline and seaside attractions.
88. Will and Kate 88
    This bingo call gives kudos to the most popular members of the royal family – the prince and princess of Wales.
89. Almost there
    This call is a playful reminder to players that they’re getting closer to winning and should stay focused and alert for the remaining numbers.
90. Top of the shop
    This call is a playful way to acknowledge the excitement and anticipation of being just one number away from winning the game.

Your guide to playing bingo

A refresher is in order after we rolled out a complete list of bingo calls from 1 through 90. This may be your first time playing bingo; if so, welcome and enjoy! Bingo lingo is a big part of the appeal of this celebrated gambling game.

Naturally, bingo, like blackjack, roulette, or slots, comes in different variants. The game continues to evolve as it absorbs an ever-increasing number of players across the demographic. Bingo is dynamic that way.

The options abound, from 75-ball bingo to 90-ball bingo, 80-ball bingo, and Swedish Bingo. Fans of this wildly popular game routinely attest to the incredible variety, from penny bingo games to progressive jackpot games.

It’s about more than simply marking called numbers on your bingo card. Of course, that is central to the premise of bingo because that’s how you win. Complete patterns, horizontal, vertical, or diagonal lines, and a full house to win a prize.

But as we all know, the fun takes place during bingo calls. That’s when you hear the iconic expressions and engage in social banter with your friends in bingo chat rooms. Any game that makes you laugh or smile is worth playing. If you play 75-ball bingo, there are 75 possible bingo calls. Likewise, 90-ball bingo features 90 possible bingo calls.

Nowadays, online bingo calls can come up as numbers or digital bingo balls with numbers printed on them. It’s the same thing – dab the numbers on your bingo cards, and you’re golden.

The origin of rhyming bingo calls

The origins of rhyming bingo calls can be traced back to the early days of bingo, where bingo callers would use rhyming slang as a way to keep the game fun and interesting. Some of the earliest bingo calls were actually based on the rhyming slang used by cockney market traders in London.

For example, the number 8 was called “one fat lady” because the number 8 resembles the shape of an overweight woman. Similarly, the number 17 was called “dancing queen” because of its association with the hit song by ABBA. Over time, these rhyming calls became a beloved part of bingo culture, and new calls were added to the mix to keep things fresh and entertaining.

Today, Canadian bingo players continue to enjoy a wide variety of rhyming bingo calls, many of which have been adapted to reflect Canadian culture and history. From “poutine and gravy” for 87 to number 10 Justin’ Den (a reference to Justin Trudeau), these calls are integral to the bingo experience and add a uniquely Canadian twist to this beloved game.

So, whether you’re a seasoned bingo player or a newcomer, take a moment to appreciate the creativity and humour behind these iconic bingo calls. And who knows, maybe you will even come up with a few rhyming calls!