Placing a bet equal to the current highest bet is called calling. Raise means placing a bet equal the highest bet, plus more to get the highest bet. To raise means to place a bet which is higher than the highest bet. Checking allows the player to stay in the game without calling or raising, however, this may only be done if no one has placed a bet before you. When folding you give up and lose any chance of winning. You are out of the game at once. Classic Poker Game Bets.