Poker is an ancient card game that has evolved over the years to include numerous variations. Its popularity has remained high in recent years, and so has the need to understand the language of the game. The poker term often gets people confused, and it could affect how they play the game. In this guide, we are going to look at a few poker terms that every player should know. Poker Hand Rankings The first poker term that new players should familiarize themselves with is poker hand rankings. These rankings determine the strength of a player's hand. It's important to understand these rankings to help you decide when to call, raise, or fold. The rankings from the strongest to weakest are: 1. Royal Flush - This is the strongest hand in poker and consists of the 10 to Ace of a single suit. 2. Straight Flush - Has five cards of the same suit in consecutive order. 3. Four of a Kind - All four cards of the same value. 4. Full House - Consist of three of a kind and two of a kind. 5. Flush - Five cards of the same suit but do not have to be in order. 6. Straight - Five consecutive cards, but not all of the same suit. 7. Three of a Kind - Have three cards with the same value. 8. Two Pair - Two cards of the same value and two of another value. 9. One Pair - Two cards of the same value. 10. High Card - Any hand that does not meet any of the above rankings. Poker Betting Strategy Poker is not only about understanding the rankings of the hands but also knowing when to bet. Players need to read their opponents and understand their betting patterns. Understanding the meaning of different poker phrases such as "check," "call," and "raise" helps players to understand their opponents' movements and plan their next move accordingly. Betting Phrases/Slang in Poker 1. Check - A player makes a zero-dollar bet, essentially giving up his or her turn but keeping them in the hand. 2. Call - When a player bets the exact amount they need to play the hand. 3. Raise - When a player increases the amount of money in the pot by adding to the bet. 4. Fold - When a player gives up on the hand, discarding their cards and their cards in the pot. 5. All-in - When a player bets all their remaining chips. 6. Bluff - When a player bets with a low-quality hand hoping to convince other players that they have a high-value hand. In conclusion, as a player, it is essential to understand the various poker terms that are often discussed when playing poker. By understanding the hand rankings and betting strategies, one can make well-informed decisions during the game, increasing their chances of winning. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the game, so do not be afraid to learn and make adjustments as you go. Happy playing!