The Most Memorable Bingo Calls and Their Origins

Bingo is a popular game that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for many years. One of the things that makes bingo so unique is the use of memorable and sometimes humorous calls for each number. These calls have become a part of the game’s culture and are often used to add an extra element of fun and excitement to the game. Here are some of the most memorable bingo calls and their origins:

1. Two Little Ducks (22)

This call is said to have originated from the shape of the number 22, which resembles two little ducks side by side. It’s a popular call in the UK and is often accompanied by the sound of quacking ducks.

2. Legs Eleven (11)

The call “legs eleven” is thought to have originated from the shape of the number 11, which looks like a pair of legs. The call is often accompanied by a wolf whistle or a cheer.

3. Kelly’s Eye (1)

The call “Kelly’s Eye” is said to have originated from the founder of the game, a man named Edwin S. Lowe. According to legend, Lowe was playing a game of bingo with friends when he heard a woman shout “Kelly’s Eye” instead of “1”. When he asked her about it, she explained that Kelly was a popular Irish name and that many people in her community referred to the number 1 as “Kelly’s Eye”.

4. Two Fat Ladies (88)

This call is said to have originated from the shape of the number 88, which looks like two large ladies standing next to each other. The call is often accompanied by the sound of laughter or applause.

5. Clickety Click (66)

The call “clickety click” is thought to have originated from the sound of the number 66 being called out quickly. It’s a popular call in the UK and is often accompanied by the sound of a train whistle or the phrase “all the sixes”.

6. Two and Eight (28)

This call is said to have originated from the rhyme “two and eight, twenty-eight”. It’s a popular call in the UK and is often accompanied by the sound of clapping or cheering.

7. Doctor’s Orders (9)

The call “doctor’s orders” is thought to have originated from the use of the number 9 in medical prescriptions. The call is often accompanied by the sound of a stethoscope or the phrase “number nine, feeling fine”.

8. Unlucky for Some (13)

The call “unlucky for some” is a popular one in the UK, where the number 13 is considered unlucky. The call is often accompanied by the sound of groaning or the phrase “unlucky for some, lucky for others”.

9. One Little Flea (53)

The call “one little flea” is said to have originated from the shape of the number 53, which looks like a flea. The call is often accompanied by the sound of buzzing or itching.

10. Top of the Shop (90)

This call is said to have originated from the fact that the number 90 is the highest number in the game. The call is often accompanied by the sound of cheering or the phrase “top of the shop, blind 90”.

These are just a few of the most memorable bingo calls and their origins. Each call adds a unique and fun element to the game, making it a popular pastime for people of all ages and backgrounds. So, the next time you play bingo, listen out for these memorable calls and enjoy the fun and excitement they bring to the game.