Domino, also spelled dominoes, are small rectangular blocks that can be stacked end-to-end in long lines. When the first domino is tipped, it sets off a chain of falling pieces in rhythmic motion that is often spectacular to watch. These pieces can be arranged in straight or curved lines, grids that form pictures when they fall, or 3D structures like towers and pyramids. A domino set is also the basis for many different games of skill, chance and strategy. Dominoes have been a popular form of entertainment since they were introduced in Europe in the 1750s.

The word domino itself has an interesting history. It was derived from the Italian term domini, meaning “supreme.” The first recorded use of the word in English came around 1750. Earlier, in both English and French, the word domino denoted a hooded cloak worn together with a mask at a carnival or masquerade ball. This connection may account for the use of ebony blacks and ivory faces on the domino pieces.

In the game of domino, one player starts by placing a single domino on its edge or on the floor. Then he or she takes turns pushing other dominoes onto the top of the first. The game continues until a player cannot play anymore or reaches the end of his or her turn. The winning players are those who have the most points, or chips, left.

While there are many variations on the game of domino, the basic rules are simple. Each domino has a number of pips (spots) on the end, or face, of the piece. Most dominoes are white, but some sets contain color-coded tiles that indicate a different score value.

A typical domino set contains a total of 28 pieces, which are called pawns or tiles. Some games, such as piquet and a game of dominoes for two, require that all of the pawns be placed before the game ends. In other games, only the pawns that are touching can be moved at any given time.

Domino art is a popular hobby, with people creating impressive structures that can be photographed and shared online. Some artists create straight or curved lines, grids that look like photographs, or 3D designs like towers and pyramids. In addition, artists can make their own tracks or domino boards to help them plan out their projects.

The success of Domino’s Pizza can be attributed to the company’s focus on listening to its employees and customers. When Domino’s CEO, Don Meij, was featured on an episode of Undercover Boss, he went into a few of the chain’s busiest restaurants to see how the staff handled deliveries. He listened to the complaints and suggestions that employees had and took action on them.

Domino’s leadership structure is based on the notion that good leaders are made, not born. Employees are encouraged to become involved in decision-making, and the company tries to find the best leader for each position. In addition, the company promotes the idea that a person can do well in a job even if he or she has limited experience.