A check‑raise is when you check early in a betting round and then raise after an opponent bets.
Explanation. The name describes the sequence: first you check (hiding strength), hoping someone bets, then you raise to extract more value or bluff. It works as deception and pot builder—especially effective on dry boards or against aggressive players. For instance, holding top pair on flop, you check hoping opponent bets, then raise to trap them. It’s a powerful strategy when used selectively.