Stranger
Stranger is a poker term used to describe a player at the table who is completely unknown to you. This player’s style, tendencies, and strategies are a mystery. They might be a seasoned pro or a complete newbie, and you have no clue which. Think of it as a wild card in human form.
The origin of Stranger in Poker
The term “Stranger” in poker gained traction in the early days of the game when players would gather in saloons or private clubs. Back then, unless you were a regular, you were considered a stranger, an unknown entity at the table. This was particularly significant because knowing your opponents’ habits and tells was, and still is, a big part of the game. The term stuck around as poker moved into casinos and online platforms, where it’s still used today.
Examples of use:
“Watch out for the stranger; they might have some tricks up their sleeve.”
Player 1: “Who’s that in seat 5?”
Player 2: “No idea, a complete stranger. Better keep an eye on them.”
You can use it in real life too…
- “Starting a new job feels like sitting at a poker table full of strangers.”
- “Blind dates are like playing against strangers; you never know what you’re gonna get.”
- “Group projects in college are tough, especially when your teammates are strangers.”
When playing, be aware:
Do: Observe and Adapt
Pay close attention to the stranger’s betting patterns and behavior. Are they aggressive? Do they fold easily? The quicker you can pick up on their tendencies, the better your chances of outplaying them. Take mental notes and adapt your strategy accordingly.
Don’t: Assume They’re a Fish
Never underestimate a stranger. Just because you don’t know them doesn’t mean they don’t know their way around the table. Underestimating a stranger can lead to costly mistakes. Always respect the unknown until you have a solid read on them.
Stranger means the same in other sports?
In chess, a “stranger” can refer to a player you’ve never encountered before. Similarly, in esports like League of Legends, it might mean a player you’re matched with in a random game. In these contexts, it carries the same sense of unpredictability as in poker.
However, in sports like baseball or soccer, “stranger” doesn’t carry the same strategic implications. It might simply mean someone new to the team or league, without the added layer of unpredictability in gameplay style.
Trivia
Did you know that the term “stranger” was popularized in poker literature by Doyle Brunson? In his legendary book “Super/System,” he often referred to unknown players as strangers, emphasizing the importance of quickly sizing up your opponents. This book, first published in 1978, is still considered one of the most influential poker books ever written.
