Ante

In poker, an ante is the mandatory minimum stake you have to place at the start of the round, before receiving your cards. It is most common in stud poker games, but it is also sometimes required as an addition to blinds in card games.

The ante’s main function is to make up the initial pot. The ante also serves as a deterrent for overly-passive players, who would otherwise not place a bet unless they had a good hand.

Ante: 

• A mandatory minimum stake you have to place at the start of the round.
• Makes up the initial pot.
• Serves as a deterrent for overly passive players.