Poker glossary · Hands
What does “two pair” mean in poker?
Definition
Two pair: Two pair is a hand with two cards of one rank, two cards of another rank and a fifth unmatched card, such as J-J-5-5-A.
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Two pair ranks above one pair and below three of a kind. When both your hole cards pair the board it is well hidden and strong. When the board itself is paired, every player with a pair also has two pair, so its value drops a lot and the kicker often decides the winner.
Example: You hold J♥ 5♥ on a flop of J♣ 5♦ 2♠. You have two pair, jacks and fives.
Related terms
- KickerAn unpaired side card used to break ties between hands of the same rank.
- TripsTrips is three of a kind made with one hole card and a pair on the board, unlike a set, which uses a pocket pair.
- Made handA made hand is a hand that already has showdown value, such as a pair or better, rather than one still needing cards to improve.