There are a lot of different terms associated with scratch-offs in the USA. For a start, what do you call them? Are they scratch-offs, scratch tickets, scratchers, scratch its, or something else? We've collected all the important terms on one page, so you can look up the meanings quickly and easily. If you scroll on past the glossary, you'll find the section covering all the different names we use for Scratch-Offs, and where they're mostly used.
What do you call scratch-offs in your area? Here are some common terms used in North America and the broader English-speaking world.
Scratch-Off - The most widely used term in the U.S., standard in state lottery communications nationwide.
Scratch Ticket - Common in the Midwest, South, and parts of Canada. Often used in printed materials and by retailers.
Scratcher - Widely used in California and neighboring Western states - prominently featured in California Lottery branding.
Scratch-It - Official branding used exclusively by the Oregon Lottery, and recognised in conversation by many Oregonians.
Instant Game - Generic lottery industry term used in most U.S. states and by Canadian provinces to describe scratch-based and other immediate-result games.
Instant Win Game - Used across the U.S. and Canada, especially in online or digital versions. This term emphasizes the 'immediate feedback' aspect.
Scratch Card - The standard term in the UK, Ireland, and parts of Canada. Occasionally used in the northeastern U.S.
Scratchie - Common in Australia and sometimes heard in New Zealand. This term occasionally appears in online Canadian or U.S. player communities but not officially used.
Jeu Instantane - Used in Quebec by the operator, Loto-Quebec. It this term is French for "instant game".