Bingo Numbers

If you have ever visited a bingo hall and listened out to the way that the caller announces the bingo numbers, you might be forgiven if you think that you are in a different country. Bingo numbers, in fact, have a long and interesting history that can be traced back to the old bingo halls of England. Each number has its own little tale to tell and for that reason it is interesting to read how these bingo numbers got their names.

In general, calling names are given to bingo numbers from one through to ninety on the bingo card. Most of these names are divided into roughly two groups – calling names that rhyme with the bingo numbers and those that are associated with the numbers for a particular reason. An example of a rhyming calling name would be “Twenty Three – She and Me”. Because ‘she and me’ could actually rhyme with any of the bingo numbers ending in three, another name is usually given to the number in addition to the rhyme.

Many of the names given to bingo numbers for a particular reason are quite humorous and reflect the culture in which they originated. For example, number ten is usually given the name of the current British Prime Minister, followed by the word ‘den’. So in previous years, the number ten was named Tony’s Den in honor of the ex-PM’s official residence at 10 Downing Street. Other bingo numbers have tongue-in-cheek sexual connotations, such as the number 69, which is known as ‘either way up’ or ‘your place or mine’.

As can be seen, the calling names for bingo numbers may differ, depending on the country the game is being played in or even the regions within a particular country. What is important to remember is that calling names for bingo numbers add a fun element to the game and help us remember the rich and varied history of this great game.