Definition of Underdog

What does the term "underdog" mean in the world of poker? What is the definition of the term "underdog"?

In poker, an "underdog" is the person who is not statistically favored to win a hand.

The opposite of "underdog"? That would be the favorite.

Let's take a look at an example to fully illustrate the proper usage of the term "underdog":

You are playing in a $5/$10 NLHE game at your local casino. After a flop of 5h-6s-7h, you and one of your opponents at the table get the remainder of your stacks into the middle of the table.

You flip over 8h-9h for the straight and gutshot straight flush draw, while your opponent turns over 6h-7s for top two pair.

Now, you are the favorite to win the hand, while your opponent is the underdog. If a million randomized turn and river cards were dealt out, you would come out ahead in the majority of the hands, which makes you the favorite. On the other hand, your opponent would lose the majority of the million hands, which makes him the "underdog".

Of course, being the underdog doesn't necessarily mean that your opponent will lose the hand. The 7d is dealt on the turn, giving your opponent the full house and the large pot.

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