Protection Bet ( poker )

1) In a big bet game, a bet made after the draw in a draw game, or in a vulnerable position in a stud or hold 'em game, to avoid having to call a larger bet from a potentially better hand or from a possible bluff. For example, in no-limit lowball, a player opens for $4. Another player raises $25. The first player calls and draws one card, while the other stands pat. The first player catches an 8, to make an 8-6. He does not want to check, because, with the sevens rule, if the other player has a 7 or better, she might bet a lot, knowing she cannot possibly lose. So the first player now bets $4. That is a protection bet, because the other player will likely not raise with a hand (like a rough 7) that would be a cinch if the first player had not bet. Also underbet.
2) A bet made to protect a player who is all in for the main pot, as described under protect.
3) A bet made to protect a vulnerable hand, as described under protect.