Question:

Bill, what does the term "Jacks are better" mean?

Answer:

"Jacks or better" refers to a form of Poker (in almost all cases five card draw) where a minimum hand of a pair of Jacks or better is needed to open the betting. Once the betting is opened, subsequent players have no minimum starting requirements.

A few points:

Openers may be split. For instance if someone is dealt J Hearts, J Spades, 10 Spades, Q Spades, K Spades he may open the betting (since he has a pair of J's) but draw to the straight flush. The discarded J hearts must be kept to the side as proof that the bettor had the minimum starting hand.

Whoever opens the betting must show his openers even if the pot is not contested. For instance if I open the betting and everyone folds, I must show at least a pair of Jacks.