When the player places a bet which is equal to the current highest bet it is called calling. Raise means placing a bet equal the highest bet, plus more to get the highest bet. Placing a bet equal to the highest bet, then adding more to become the highest bet is raising. If nobody has made a bet before you, you can stay in the game without calling or raising. It is called checking. When folding you give up and lose any chance of winning. You are out of the game at once. How To Win At Poker Houses.