Dominoes are small, rectangular blocks of a material such as wood or clay that are set on end in a long line. When a single domino is tipped over, it sets off a chain reaction that causes all the others to fall over one by one. The term domino refers to this effect and is often used in popular culture and in business. For example, a company’s failure to meet customer expectations can set off a chain reaction in which other parts of the organization are affected by negative feedback.
A domino has a smooth surface that allows it to be tapped on the edge with the finger. The surface is sometimes painted to add grip. In addition to being used for games, dominoes are a popular decorative item. They can be placed in rows, used to create a unique table centerpiece, or glued together to form larger structures such as houses.
The first domino to be played in a game is referred to as the set, the down, or the lead. The player who makes this play may also be called the setter or the downer. In some games, the rules state that the first play must be made by a player who has a double in his hand. In other games, the player who draws a number that matches a double can make the first play.
After the initial set has been made, players will draw tiles from the stock until they have a domino that can be played. In some games, this process is referred to as byeing or passing the stock.
Once a player has drawn a domino that can be played, he will place it on the table and will begin playing. The next tile in his hand must match with the end of a domino that has already been played, and it must be positioned so that the matching ends are touching. If the next domino is a double, it is placed crosswise across the other side of the double.
In some games, the players’ total number of pips on their remaining dominoes is used to determine the winners. When this method of scoring is used, the losers must count all the pips on their remaining dominoes (including the numbers on both sides of a double) and subtract the number from the total of the winning players.
Dominoes are a fun way to pass the time, and many people enjoy playing them with family and friends. Some people even use them to enhance their home decor or as a learning tool for children. One of the most interesting aspects of dominoes is how they can be stacked and used to create beautiful and intricate designs. Some people are even able to build entire buildings using dominoes alone! The art of domino building has even become an important part of the arts and crafts movement.
