Domino is the name of a family of games played with dominoes, flat squares that are stacked on end in long lines. When one of the dominoes is tipped over, it causes the rest of the line to tip over, in a chain reaction known as the “domino effect.” Dominoes can be used for games of skill or chance, and are a fun way to pass the time or entertain guests.
The set of 28 dominoes in a standard European domino set consists of seven doubles (same number on both ends from double blank to double six) and 21 singles, with each domino identifying itself with an arrangement of dots, or “pips,” like those on a die. These pips are usually inlaid or painted, and there are many different ways of marking these spots.
There are a variety of games that can be played with dominoes, including blocking and scoring. Some of the more popular games are Muggins, Draw-and-Score, and Dominoes.
When a player takes his turn, he draws the dominoes from the stock according to the rules of the game and adds them to the dominoes in his hand. If he cannot play any of the tiles in his hand, he returns them to the stock and draws again. This process continues until all the players have exhausted their hands or none are able to make a play.
Some games allow a player to buy extra dominoes from the stock, and these are added to the hand that is being made. If a player draws more than he is permitted to take for his hand, this is called an overdraw and the extras must be returned to the stock before the next player draws.
Another use of the word domino is in reference to a series of events that start small and grow exponentially, such as a domino effect or Domino’s Pizza chain’s recent growth. Domino’s has been praised for its line of communication with customers and the way it listens to customer complaints and concerns.
Some people enjoy creating artistic designs with dominoes. This can be as simple as straight lines, curved lines, grids that form pictures, or 3D structures such as towers and pyramids. It is important when using dominoes for this purpose to use the smallest and lightest ones possible, so they can be easily positioned and moved around. For a truly artistic masterpiece, many artists prefer to use real dominoes to create intricate patterns that will stand out against the canvas. This is a great option for a hobby that can be enjoyed by all ages. A small framed piece of domino art makes a wonderful gift for friends or family members. It is also a creative idea for a party favor or wedding reception guest gift. These gifts will be cherished for years to come. They will remind the recipient of a special moment in their lives, and they can be used as a centerpiece for a future dinner party or other celebration.