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Cardsharper: meaning, definitions and examples

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cardsharper

 

[ ˈkɑrdˌʃɑrpər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

gambling term

A cardsharper is a person, typically a con artist, who deceives others while playing card games, often using sleight of hand or other dishonest methods. They are skilled in manipulating the game in their favor, usually at the expense of unsuspecting players. Cardsharper techniques can include marking cards, palming, or using cheating devices. This term is commonly associated with contexts like casinos, poker games, and illegal gambling activities.

Synonyms

cheat, con artist, fraudster, swindler

Examples of usage

  • The cardsharper tricked the players out of their money.
  • He was known as a legendary cardsharper in the underground casino scene.
  • Many cardsharpers are elusive and difficult to catch.
  • The notorious cardsharper was finally apprehended by the authorities.

Translations

Translations of the word "cardsharper" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cartomante

🇮🇳 कार्ड धोखेबाज़

🇩🇪 Kartenschwindler

🇮🇩 penipu kartu

🇺🇦 картяр

🇵🇱 oszust kartowy

🇯🇵 カード詐欺師

🇫🇷 escroc de cartes

🇪🇸 estafador de cartas

🇹🇷 kart dolandırıcısı

🇰🇷 카드 사기꾼

🇸🇦 محتال ورق

🇨🇿 karetní podvodník

🇸🇰 karetný podvodník

🇨🇳 牌局骗子

🇸🇮 kartični prevarant

🇮🇸 spilafundur

🇰🇿 карталық алаяқ

🇬🇪 ბარათების თაღლითობა

🇦🇿 kart dolandırıcısı

🇲🇽 estafador de cartas

Word origin

The term 'cardsharper' is derived from the combination of 'card', referring to playing cards, and 'sharper', which in this context means someone who is skillful or clever, often in a deceptive way. The word 'sharper' itself has roots dating back to the 16th century, where it was used to describe someone who is sharp or shifty in terms of mental acuity. The practice of cheating at cards has a long and colorful history, often romanticized in literature and film, from the old West card games to modern casinos. Cardsharpers were notorious figures in the gambling scene, often gaining a reputation for their craftiness and cunning ways. Historically, many players took pride in their ability to outsmart other gamblers, leading to a cat-and-mouse dynamic in various gaming environments. This term has been used since at least the 19th century, reflecting the continued relevance of cheating in gambling.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,101, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.