pocket twos

Why a Two is Called a “Deuce” in Poker

The term “deuce” is commonly used to describe a “two” in poker. The terms deuce and two are interchangeable, and you’ll arguably hear deuce more often.

For example, a pocket pair of twos is often called “pocket deuces” in Texas Hold’em.

Why is a two called a deuce in poker? Let’s take a look.

Origin of the Term “Deuce”

The origin of the term deuce as a substitute for two likely comes from either the German or French languages.

In German card games, the Deuce (spelled Daus in German) is the highest-ranking card. While German playing cards differ pretty drastically (at least visually) from the playing cards used in poker games, the German deuce represents a two. 

Much like the 2 of Diamonds always has two diamond symbols, the German Deuce always displays two of a given symbol. The term Daus is also used to describe a two in German dice games.

Another possible origin for “deuce” is the French word “deux” (which means two in French).

To be clear, this is what a “deuce” looks like in a traditional deck of poker cards:

2h-hearts-new-cards

If you’re playing Texas Hold’em and you look down at a pair of twos as your hole cards, you can also call that hand a pair of deuces or pocket deuces.

If you see another two appear on the flop, now you have a set of deuces (or a set of twos).

The next time you sit in on a poker game, listen closely and try to determine which name is used more for the card we’re discussing here – “two” or “deuce.”

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Note: Are you here just to learn how to play poker...or do you want to know how to win too? Get this free guide with 10 quick poker strategy tips if you want to come out on top.

free poker guide

Home > Why a Two is Called a “Deuce” in Poker
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About the Author
Geoffrey Fisk

Geoffrey Fisk

Freelance writer and poker player based in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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