Poker Glossary
Every poker term you need to know, from the basics to advanced strategy concepts. Clear definitions with real examples.
A smaller buy-in tournament where the prize is a seat in a larger, more expensive tournament. A common way to qualify for major events.
Betting or raising with a drawing hand that can improve to the best hand. Combines fold equity with the potential to win at showdown.
Three of a kind made with a pocket pair and one matching board card. Stronger than 'trips' (three of a kind using one hole card and two board cards...
A highly skilled, winning poker player who preys on weaker opponents. The opposite of a fish.
Expression meaning to push all your chips into the pot (go all-in). Also used when someone wins a big pot: 'Ship it!'
Having a relatively small number of chips compared to the blinds (typically under 20 big blinds). Short-stack strategy focuses on push/fold decisions.
The point at the end of a hand where remaining players reveal their cards to determine the winner. Occurs after all betting rounds are complete.
A single-table tournament that starts as soon as enough players register. Typically 6, 9, or 10 players. Faster than scheduled MTTs.
Playing a very strong hand passively (checking or calling) to disguise its strength and trap opponents into betting.
The smaller of the two forced bets, posted by the player to the left of the dealer button. Usually half the big blind.
Calling a bet immediately without hesitation, indicating a very strong hand or a clear decision.
Software (like GTO Wizard or PioSolver) that calculates game-theory optimal strategies for specific poker situations.
A large re-raise (3-bet) made after an open raise and one or more callers. Exploits dead money from the callers.
The ratio of the effective stack to the pot on the flop. Low SPR (< 4) favors big hands; high SPR (> 10) favors drawing hands and position.
A voluntary blind bet (usually double the big blind) posted by the player under the gun. Creates more action and a bigger starting pot.
Five cards in sequential rank (e.g., 5-6-7-8-9). A straight beats three of a kind but loses to a flush. Ace can be high (A-K-Q-J-10) or low (A-2-3-...
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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