A tell is a subconscious or involuntary behavior, gesture, action, or expression exhibited by a player that may reveal information about the strength or weakness of their hand. Tells can be physical (such as body language, facial expressions, or mannerisms) or verbal (like specific phrases or speech patterns). Experienced players often observe these cues to try and decipher their opponents' intentions or the strength of their hands. However, tells are not always accurate and can vary widely among individuals, making them just one element among many used in reading opponents in poker.