Domino is a game of skill and chance, in which players take turns placing tiles on a rectangular board so that when each tile reaches its end, it triggers a chain reaction that eventually causes all the other tiles to fall. Each domino bears a number of dots or pips on its face, and each set contains 28 such tiles. Dominos may also be used to create artistic layouts, including lines and angular patterns as well as 3D structures like towers and pyramids.
A domino is a small, thumb-sized block of clay or plastic, bearing from one to six pips or dots on its face. The word “domino” is actually a shortened form of the Latin word dominium, which refers to a type of hooded garment worn in combination with a mask during carnival season or at a masquerade. It also is thought that the term derives from the word domène, which means “fascinating,” and may be related to the idea of a fascinating display or spectacle.
The most common domino sets are made from pressed clay or plastic, with a printed design on each tile. In addition, there are sets made from natural materials such as bone, silver lip ocean pearl oyster shell (mother of pearl, or MOP), ivory, and ebony wood; these tend to be heavier in weight and look more elegant. In the past, carved stone (such as marble or granite) and even crystal and frosted glass were used in some domino sets.
Many people enjoy using domino to build a line or a pattern that will collapse in an interesting fashion. Others enjoy playing domino games, which can be simple or very complex and involve blocking the opponent’s play or scoring points. There are many different types of domino games, and some even duplicate the rules of card games.
Domino is a fun way to develop spatial awareness, and it can be a useful tool for teaching children about shapes and numbers. It’s also an easy way to spend an hour or two just enjoying the simple pleasure of watching a long string of dominoes fall over each other.
In addition to being an entertaining and educational toy, domino can be a powerful metaphor for life. The Domino Effect is a phenomenon whereby each new positive behavior leads to a cascade of changes in other aspects of a person’s life. For example, if someone decides to begin making their bed each morning, this can lead to other good habits such as cooking dinner at home or exercising daily.
When Domino’s Pizza first opened in 1967, the company founder, Dominic Monaghan, based the business model on creating locations near college campuses so he could reach students with his product quickly. This strategy proved successful and helped the Domino’s brand grow. The company now has over 200,000 stores worldwide. Its success has been attributed to an emphasis on listening to its customers and responding to their feedback. For example, Domino’s has implemented a relaxed dress code and a new leadership training program in response to customer complaints.