Definition & Meaning of "Texas hold 'em"

What is "Texas hold 'em"?

Texas hold 'em is one of the most popular forms of poker, played with two to ten players. Each player is dealt two private cards, called hole cards, and shares five community cards that are dealt face-up in the center of the table. The goal is to make the best five-card hand by combining the two hole cards with the community cards. The game consists of four betting rounds, pre-flop, the flop, the turn, and the river. In the pre-flop round, no community cards are dealt yet, while the flop shows the first three community cards. The turn adds a fourth card, and the river shows the fifth and final card. Players can check, bet, raise, or fold during each round. The player with the best hand at the end of the final round wins the pot. Texas hold 'em is known for its strategic depth, bluffing opportunities, and fast-paced action.