The American Mahjong Glossary

A Guide to the Language Around the Table

Part of learning Mahjong is learning its language. From Bams and Craks to Charleston and Jokers, American Mahjong has developed a vocabulary all its own, shaped by the game’s Chinese origins and its evolution in the United States.

Whether you’re preparing for your first lesson or simply want to feel more confident around the table, consider this your introduction to the words you’ll hear at Mahj Studios.

What is Mahjong?

Mahjong is a tile-based game that originated in China during the Qing dynasty. It is commonly played by four players and involves skill, strategy, and a bit of luck. The game consists of 144 tiles, which are divided into different suits and honors. The objective is to build a winning hand by drawing and discarding tiles, ultimately forming sets and pairs.

The Tiles

Bams (Bamboo) - One of Mahjong’s three numbered suits. Bamboo tiles are numbered one through nine. The One Bamboo is distinctive because it is traditionally represented by a bird rather than a bamboo stalk, earning it the affectionate nickname “Bird Bam” among many American players.

Bird Bam - The nickname commonly given to the One Bamboo tile. In American Mahjong circles, the Bird Bam has developed a personality of its own, with some groups even raising their glasses for a celebratory toast when it appears.

Craks (Characters) - One of the three numbered suits, traditionally called the Character suit. In American Mahjong, players commonly refer to these tiles as Craks. They are numbered one through nine.

Dots (Circles) - The third numbered suit, represented by circular motifs and numbered one through nine. You may hear these called Dots, Circles, or occasionally Wheels, depending on the players around the table.

Dragons - Honor tiles represented in American Mahjong by Red, Green, and White Dragons. Dragons play an important role in many hands on the National Mah Jongg League card.

Winds - The four directional honor tiles: North, East, South, and West.

Flowers - Decorative tiles used extensively in American Mahjong hands. Unlike the numbered suits, Flowers are interchangeable with one another in standard American Mahjong play.

Jokers - Wild tiles unique to certain modern forms of Mahjong, including American Mahjong. Jokers may substitute for tiles in qualifying groupings, but there are important restrictions on when and where they can be used.

Soap - An affectionate American Mahjong nickname for the White Dragon, whose traditionally blank or bordered appearance reminded players of a bar of soap. On the NMJL card, the White Dragon can also represent a zero when used in a year hand.

Blank - Blank tiles can be used to swap for a tile that has already been discarded. You may exchange a blank for any discarded tile, with one important exception: you can't use a blank to retrieve a Joker.

Around the Table

Charleston - A defining feature of American Mahjong. Before play begins, players participate in a sequence of tile exchanges known as the Charleston, passing tiles to one another in prescribed directions as they begin shaping their hands.

Courtesy Pass - An optional final exchange at the end of the Charleston. Opposing players may agree to exchange zero, one, two, or three tiles.

Blind Pass - A technique sometimes used during the Charleston that allows a player to pass a tile received from another player without looking at it, subject to the rules governing that particular pass.

Wall - The rows of face-down tiles constructed before each game begins. Players draw tiles from the wall throughout play.

Rack - The holder in front of each player where tiles are arranged during the game. The top of the rack is also used to display exposed combinations.

Dealer / East - The player designated East begins the game. In American Mahjong, East starts with an additional tile and makes the first discard.

Draw - Taking the next available tile from the wall.

Discard - Placing an unwanted tile face-up in the center of the table and announcing its name so the other players know what has been played.

Building a Hand

The Card - In American Mahjong, players typically build their hands according to an annual card published by the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL). The card changes each year and contains the combinations that can be used to declare Mahjong.

Hand - The specific combination of tiles a player is working toward on the card.

Exposure - A grouping of tiles placed on top of the rack after calling another player’s discard. Once exposed, these tiles generally remain visible for the rest of the game.

Concealed Hand - A hand marked with a C on the NMJL card. These hands must remain concealed and generally cannot call discarded tiles except for the tile needed to declare Mahjong.

Exposed Hand - A hand marked with an X on the NMJL card, indicating that the player may make exposures by calling eligible discarded tiles.

Pair - Two identical tiles. Jokers cannot be used to create or complete a pair under standard American Mahjong rules.

Pung - A grouping of three identical tiles.

Kong - A grouping of four identical tiles.

Quint. -A grouping of five identical tiles. Because there are normally only four identical tiles in a set, a Quint requires at least one Joker.

Sextet - A grouping of six identical tiles, requiring the use of Jokers.

Playing the Game

Call - Claiming another player’s discard because it completes an eligible grouping in your hand. When calling a tile, the corresponding grouping is exposed on your rack.

Mahjong - The declaration made when a player completes a valid hand. It is also, of course, the name of the game itself.

Dead Hand - A hand that can no longer legally win because of an error, such as an incorrect exposure or too many or too few tiles. A player with a dead hand remains at the table but cannot declare Mahjong.

Joker Exchange - If another player has exposed a grouping containing a Joker and you possess the natural tile it represents, you may be able to exchange your tile for that Joker during your turn.

Hot Wall - A house rule used by some groups when play reaches the final portion of the wall. Because hot-wall rules vary and are not part of every standardized rule set, it is always worth establishing whether your table uses one before beginning play.

Wall Game - A game that ends without anyone declaring Mahjong because all available tiles have been drawn.

A Language Learned Around the Table

Like Mahjong itself, the language surrounding the game reflects generations of history, adaptation, and community. Some terms come directly from the structure of the game, while others are distinctly American additions or affectionate nicknames that have developed around the table.

And that distinction matters.

American Mahjong is one branch of a much larger Mahjong tradition. The terminology used at Mahj Studios reflects the American version of the game we primarily teach and play, while recognizing that Mahjong originated in China and is played in many forms throughout the world, each with its own rules, terminology, and traditions.

You don’t need to memorize every term before you sit down to play. Mahjong is learned one tile, one hand, and one game at a time.

If this feels like a lot of new language, don’t be overwhelmed. Our classes are thoughtfully designed to guide you through the game step by step, introducing the terminology naturally as you learn. We’ll be beside you as the tiles, rules, and rhythms begin to click. Before long, words that once felt unfamiliar will simply become part of the conversation around the table.

At Mahj Studios, we believe learning the language is simply part of finding your place at the table.

Why Learn Mahjong?

Learning Mahjong offers numerous benefits that extend beyond just mastering the game. Here are a few compelling reasons to consider taking lessons:

Social Interaction

Mahjong is inherently a social game. Playing with friends or joining a local club can help you meet new people and build lasting friendships. The communal aspect of the game fosters a sense of camaraderie and teamwork.

Cognitive Benefits

Engaging in strategic games like Mahjong can enhance cognitive functions such as memory, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Studies have shown that playing games can improve mental agility and delay cognitive decline as we age.

Stress Relief

In today's fast-paced world, finding activities that promote relaxation is essential. Playing Mahjong allows you to unwind and focus your mind on the game, providing a welcome escape from daily stressors.

What to Expect in Your First Lesson

If you're new to Mahjong, your first lesson may feel a bit overwhelming. Here’s what you can expect:

Introduction to the Game

Your instructor will likely start with an overview of the game, including the different types of tiles, how to set up the game, and the basic rules. This foundational knowledge is essential for understanding the gameplay.

Hands-On Practice

Most lessons will include hands-on practice, allowing you to play a few rounds under the guidance of your instructor. This practical experience is invaluable for grasping the game's mechanics.

Tips and Strategies

As you progress, your instructor will share tips and strategies to improve your gameplay. These insights can help you develop your own style and enhance your chances of winning.

Tips for Success in Mahjong

To make the most of your Mahjong lessons, consider the following tips:

Practice Regularly

Like any skill, practice is key to improvement. Try to play as often as possible, whether with friends or at your local studio. The more you play, the more comfortable you will become with the game.

Observe Experienced Players

Watching experienced players can provide valuable insights into advanced strategies and techniques. Attend local Mahjong events or tournaments to observe and learn from the best.

Stay Patient

Mahjong can be challenging, especially for beginners. Stay patient with yourself as you learn the rules and strategies. Remember that everyone was a beginner at some point.

Ready to learn more? Take our free Before the Table online mahjong course.