Poker Glossary
Every poker term you need to know, from the basics to advanced strategy concepts. Clear definitions with real examples.
A draw that requires two consecutive cards to complete. A backdoor flush draw needs runner-runner of the same suit.
When a strong hand loses to a weaker hand that catches a lucky card. Typically occurs when a player with a significant statistical advantage loses.
"I had pocket aces and lost to pocket twos when they hit a set on the river — ..."
The total amount of money a player has set aside specifically for playing poker. Proper bankroll management is crucial for long-term success.
"My bankroll is $5,000 and I play $1/$2, so I have 25 buy-ins."
The practice of playing at stakes appropriate for your bankroll to minimize the risk of going broke. Generally, cash game players need 20-40 buy-in...
A bet on a successive street. A 'double barrel' is betting the flop and turn; a 'triple barrel' is betting all three streets.
The amount of a bet relative to the pot. Proper bet sizing is key to maximizing value and minimizing losses. Common sizes are 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, and fu...
The larger of the two forced bets posted before each hand. Also used as a unit of measurement (e.g., '3 bb/100' = winning 3 big blinds per 100 hands).
Raising from late position with the intention of winning the blinds uncontested. A fundamental strategy for tournament and cash game play.
A card in your hand that reduces the probability of an opponent having a specific hand. Having the A♠ blocks opponents from having the nut flush in...
The community cards dealt face-up in the center of the table in Hold'em and Omaha games. Consists of the flop (3 cards), turn (1 card), and river (...
A tournament format where part of each player's buy-in is placed as a bounty. When you eliminate a player, you win their bounty. Progressive KO (PK...
A card that doesn't appear to help any player. A 'bricked' turn or river means the card was irrelevant.
The point in a tournament just before the money. The 'bubble boy' is the last player eliminated without winning a prize.
"We're on the bubble — 37 players left, 36 get paid."
The most advantageous position at the table. The button acts last on every post-flop street, giving them maximum information.
The amount of money required to enter a tournament or sit down at a cash game table. In cash games, there's usually a minimum and maximum buy-in.
"The tournament has a $109 buy-in with a $100K guaranteed prize pool."
Why Learn Poker Terminology?
Understanding poker terminology is essential for improving your game. Whether you're reading strategy articles, watching training videos, or discussing hands with friends, knowing the language of poker helps you communicate effectively and learn faster. Our glossary covers everything from basic terms like "blinds" and "flop" to advanced concepts like "GTO," "ICM," and "range advantage."
Bookmark this page and refer back to it whenever you encounter an unfamiliar term. We update our glossary regularly with new poker terminology as the game evolves.
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