Poker glossary · Betting
What does “fold” mean in poker?
Definition
Fold: To fold is to give up your hand and any claim to the pot, discarding your cards without putting in any more chips.
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Folding is the most common action in poker and an underrated skill. Every fold with a weak hand saves chips you would otherwise lose. The one fold that is always a mistake is folding when you could check for free, because it gives up your share of the pot for nothing.
Example: You are dealt 8♣ 3♦ under the gun and fold before the flop.
Related terms
- CallTo call is to match the current bet or raise, putting in just enough chips to stay in the hand without raising.
- MuckTo muck is to discard your hand without showing it; the muck is also the pile of folded and discarded cards on the table.
- Fold equityThe extra value a bet gains from the chance that your opponent folds.