The term 'Lollipop Hand' in poker can also refer to the hand that consists of an Ace and a Queen (A-Q).

What Is Lollipop Hand in Poker?

In poker, 'Lollipop Hand' is sometimes used to describe a hand that consists of an Ace and a Queen of any suit. The origin of this term for the A-Q hand comes from the idea that this hand is 'sweet' but can also get you into 'sticky' situations, much like a lollipop. You could also say that the hand looks sweet but often gets licked (beaten) - also true of a lollipop.

The strength of a Lollipop Hand as a starting hand is relatively high in poker, such as Texas Hold'em or Omaha, due to the high potential for straight or flush combinations. It contains two broadway cards and crucially, an ace, meaning if you pair it you'll have top pair. Be careful, though, as the name suggests just because it looks strong it doesn't mean you will always be a strong favourite holding AQ.

Example of "Lollipop Hand"

For example, in a game of Texas Hold'em, if you're dealt an Ace and a Queen as your starting hand, you can say you have a Lollipop Hand.

• "I was dealt a Lollipop Hand and decided to raise pre-flop."
• "With a Lollipop Hand in the hole, I was hoping for a King or Jack on the flop."
• "The flop didn't improve my Lollipop Hand, so I decided to check."

Lollipop Hand in Poker FAQs

[FAQ]
Q: What does 'Lollipop Hand' mean in poker?
A: In poker, 'Lollipop Hand' can sometimes refer to a hand that consists of an Ace and a Queen of any suit. The origin of this term for the A-Q hand is less clear, but it may come from the idea that this hand is 'sweet' but can also get you into 'sticky' situations.

Q: Is a 'Lollipop Hand' a strong hand in poker?
A: The strength of a Lollipop Hand (A-Q) is relatively high in most variants of poker, such as Texas Hold'em or Omaha, due to the high potential for straight or flush combinations.

Q: How often does a 'Lollipop Hand' come up in poker games?
A: The frequency of being dealt a 'Lollipop Hand' is just as likely as being dealt any other specific two-card combination. Since it is considered a strong hand, it can often play a significant role in the outcome of the game.

Q: Can a 'Lollipop Hand' improve my poker strategy?
A: Understanding the relative strength of different starting hands, including a 'Lollipop Hand', can certainly aid your poker strategy. However, poker is a game of skill and strategy, and the specific cards you're dealt are just one factor to consider.

Q: Is a 'Lollipop Hand' recognized in all poker games?
A: Yes, the term 'Lollipop Hand' can be used in any poker game where players are dealt individual cards, such as Texas Hold'em or Omaha.