Card Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
card
[kษหd ]
Definitions
playing games
A piece of thick, stiff paper or thin pasteboard, in particular one used for writing or printing on.
Synonyms
greeting card, playing card, postcard.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| card |
This term is very broad and can refer to various types of cards, such as a credit card, business card, or any other card-shaped object used for different purposes.
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Examples of usage
- Please write your name on the card.
- I need to buy a birthday card for my friend.
information
A piece of thick paper with information printed on it, used to identify oneself or gain access to a particular place or service.
Synonyms
access card, identification card, membership card.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| card |
A general term that can refer to any small, usually rectangular piece of plastic or paper used for various purposes.
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| identification card |
Used to refer to a card that verifies a person's identity. Can be used in official contexts such as verifying age, nationality, or membership in an organization.
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| membership card |
Refers to a card that shows you are a member of a club, organization, or service. It can often be used to receive benefits or discounts.
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| access card |
Used specifically to refer to a card that grants access to a building or a restricted area. Often used in workplaces or secure facilities.
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Examples of usage
- Please show your membership card at the entrance.
- I lost my credit card and had to cancel it.
sports
A small, rectangular piece of stiff paper marked with numbers, used to keep track of a player's score or position in a game or race.
Synonyms
game card, race card, scorecard.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| card |
Used in the context of payment. Refers to a credit or debit card.
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| scorecard |
Used in the context of sports or competitions, referring to a card that keeps track of scores or points.
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| game card |
Refers to a card used specifically in playing games, such as board games or card games.
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| race card |
Often used in contexts involving discussions about race or racism, usually carrying a negative connotation. It suggests someone is using their race or ethnicity to gain advantage or sympathy.
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Examples of usage
- The referee showed a yellow card to the player for a foul.
- She held up the winning card at the end of the race.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Playing cards originated in China during the Tang dynasty in the 9th century and spread to Europe in the 14th century.
- The word 'card' comes from the Latin 'charta', meaning 'a piece of paper or papyrus'.
- In the 19th century, cards began to feature designs and illustrations that reflected contemporary culture and events.
Pop Culture
- Cards are central to many popular games, such as Poker, Bridge, and Blackjack, each having unique strategies and cultures.
- In the realm of fantasy, trading card games like Magic: The Gathering have a devoted following and encourage creativity and strategy.
- Holiday greeting cards became popular in the Victorian era, often featuring elaborate illustrations and heartfelt messages.
Psychology
- Playing card games can boost cognitive functions like memory, problem-solving, and strategic thinking.
- Thereโs a phenomenon known as 'card counting' in Blackjack, where players use mathematical strategies to gain an advantage, showcasing the intersection of math and games.
- Research shows that engaging with card games can foster social interaction and even reduce stress levels.
Science
- The material used to make playing cards can influence their durability; most are made from paper or plasticized stock known for its resilience.
- The design on cards often employs principles of optical illusion, making them visually engaging and enhancing gameplay.
- Card games have been studied for their impact on brain aging, with findings suggesting they may help maintain mental agility as people age.
Literature
- In Lewis Carroll's 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland', playing cards become characters, including the infamous Queen of Hearts.
- Cards often symbolize chance or fate in literature, illustrating how life can be unpredictable.
- Postcards became a popular means of communication in the late 19th century, combining art and message in a simple format.
Origin of 'card'
The word 'card' has a long history dating back to the 14th century. It originated from the Old French word 'carte' meaning 'playing card or map', which in turn came from the Latin word 'charta' meaning 'paper, card, or map'. Over the centuries, the meaning of 'card' has evolved to refer to various types of thick paper or pasteboard used for different purposes, from playing games to identifying oneself. Today, 'card' is a versatile word with multiple meanings and uses.
See also: cardigan, cardinal, carding, cards, cardsharp, postcard.