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Slang

Snowmen

Slang for pocket Eights (88), named because the number 8 looks like a snowman.

James Carter
James CarterVerified

iGaming Journalist & Crypto Casino Analyst

What Is Snowmen?

Snowmen is one of many playful nicknames for specific starting hands in Hold'em, joining others like pocket rockets (Aces) or hooks (Jacks). Pocket 8s are a classic middling pocket pair -- strong enough to raise preflop but often tricky to play post-flop against overcards.

Examples

1

A player announcing 'snowmen' after tabling pocket 8s at showdown.

2

Raising preflop with snowmen from middle position.

Strategy Tips

Pocket 8s play well as a raising hand from most positions but require caution post-flop on boards with one or more overcards. Consider set-mining with 8s against deep-stacked opponents, since flopping a set of eights is well disguised and highly profitable. Against multiple aggressive opponents or in shorter-stacked situations, be prepared to fold to significant pressure if you haven't improved. Avoid overvaluing an unimproved pair of 8s against heavy action on scary boards.

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