Float

1. Calling a bet without a good hand intending to bluff the bettor later in the hand.

People Who Don't Understand Floating

Ray Davis.

Popular Uses

I'm gonna float the flop and hope to knock him out of the hand on the turn. -Unknown

Goddamn internet kids thinkin' they can float me every goddamn play. -Old guy in Tunica

You don't want to float against an aggressive player, you want to float against a passive player so you won't get called. -Ray Davis

If you put 70 out there, most people think you're trappin' 'em, they don't think you're floatin'. -Ray Davis

Etymology

It's a little known fact, but the term "float" was invented out of whole cloth by the highstakes poker player Matt Szymaszek, and credit is overdue.

But Seriously, Folks

The term comes from the idea that when your opponent puts out his bet (generally on the flop), you call, waiting for the opportunity to strike later. You are sort of hovering or "floating" over your opponent/your opponent's bet, getting ready to seize the opportunity to take the pot.

Floating Scenario

A common situation in which you might attempt a float is when faced with an over-aggressive player. He can't hit a hand every time, so as long as he has shown at least some ability to lay his hand down, you may want to try floating him on the flop if you think he's just making a continuation bet with air.

Related Terms

Bluff, Semi-Bluff