A casino, also called a gaming house or gambling house, is a place where people can play various games of chance for money. The name of the establishment is derived from the Italian word for a small villa or summerhouse, which over time became associated with recreational and leisure activities, especially those involving chance. Many casinos feature hotels, restaurants and other entertainment facilities.

The casino industry has grown dramatically in recent years, and modern casinos use a variety of technological innovations to lure patrons. Chip tracking allows gamblers to be monitored minute-by-minute and warned of any deviation from expected patterns; roulette wheels are electronically monitored in order to detect statistical anomalies; and elaborate surveillance systems give a high-tech eye-in-the-sky view of every table, window and doorway in the casino.

In addition, casinos spend heavily on promotional programs to attract and keep gamblers. They offer a wide range of comps (free items) to their players, including free rooms, meals and shows. In general, the most lucrative comps are given to the highest rollers, who make the biggest bets and spend the most money.

Gambling has long been an important part of human life, and its popularity continues to grow as more countries legalize it. Although some governments attempt to ban it entirely, others regulate it and tax it. Some even host national lottery games. In the United States, casinos are often combined with other tourist attractions such as resorts, restaurants and retail shops.