Pat
In casino games, the term “pat” typically refers to a hand or combination of cards that is already complete and doesn’t need any further improvement. This is often used in poker, particularly in games like draw poker. A “pat hand” is one where the player has a strong combination, such as a straight or flush, and chooses not to exchange any cards during the draw phase, signaling confidence in the current hand.
For example, if you have a flush in five-card draw poker, you would likely “stand pat,” meaning you keep all your cards without drawing new ones. The term underscores a strategic decision to hold onto a strong hand, rather than risk weakening it.