Rake: Meaning and Definition
Rake is a gambling term for the percentage land-based casinos charge players in poker rooms. Because poker is a player v. player game, there’s no way for casinos to make money, so they charge a fee for organising a game.
Summary
In poker, the best way for casinos to make money is through rake. Think of it as a fee casinos take for organising poker games, both offline and online.
What is Rake?
Rake is money casinos take for organising poker games or poker tournaments. There are different types of rakes, i.e. casinos may take a predetermined cut, usually ranging from 2.5% to 10%, a portion of winnings, or a small cut for each hand.
Why It’s Important
In traditional casinos, rake is used to cover the costs of organising poker games. Casinos need to pay dealers and other staff members before, during and after the game. In online environments, rake is covering website maintenance costs, support or other aspects. Players should be informed that the casinos will take cuts and by sitting at a table (or a virtual table), you agree to these rules.
How It’s Used?
The term rake is often used by dealers or players can find them in rulebooks. There’s often a maximum rake cap, so the dealer may announce if that’s reached. Other than in gambling, you won’t find other similar uses of the word "rake".
