Cantrip

A cantrip is a spell, usually with a low casting cost, that draws a card in addition to its other effects and can therefore be said to replace itself. Cantrips are included in decks for varying reasons. A cantrip can effectively "thin" a deck, so more useful cards can be drawn faster, while at the same time not losing card advantage. It can also inexpensively increase the amount of spells played in a turn, which is a key factor in some decks. Some cantrips have additional effects, which can serve as an answer to an obstacle in play.

Name Origin

From D&D slang for a spell with a minor effect See the July 13 Ask Wizards: http://www.wizards.com/Magic/Magazine/Article.aspx?x=mtgcom/askwizards/0704

Slowtrips

Cantrips were introduced in Ice Age, where the effect read "Draw a card at the beginning of next turn's upkeep." Starting with Weatherlight, this has been shortened to "Draw a card." The Ice Age cantrips are also referred to as "slowtrips" because they are slower than drawing a card immediately.