Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Deuce Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🎴
Add to dictionary

deuce

[djuːs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

card games

In card games, a 'deuce' refers to a card that has a value of two. It is often considered the lowest value card in a deck. In some games, such as poker, a deuce can be of significant importance depending on the hand ranking. Additionally, it can signify a wild card in certain variations of games.

Synonyms

deuce of cards, two.

Examples of usage

  • I drew a deuce and won the hand.
  • In a high-stakes poker game, a deuce could change everything.
  • He played a deuce to complete his flush.
Context #2 | Noun

tennis

In tennis, a 'deuce' is a term used when the score is tied at 40-40. It indicates that a player must win two consecutive points to win the game. The importance of deuce is highlighted by the pressure it creates, as players must perform well under tension. A player who reaches deuce must outscore their opponent at least twice in a row to secure the game.

Synonyms

even score, tie.

Examples of usage

  • After a tense rally, the score reached deuce.
  • She won the game after a thrilling deuce.
  • The match was intense, often going to deuce.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Gaming

  • In card games, a 'deuce' is the lowest playing card in the deck, valued at two.
  • In various games, rolling a deuce can often mean a good or bad turn, depending on the rules.
  • In sports betting, a 'deuce' might refer to an even game or tie when points are significantly low.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'What the deuce!' has appeared in cartoons and movies, often portraying surprise.
  • Deuce has been used in song lyrics to emphasize confusion or unexpected situations.
  • In some slang usages, it can also refer to a chaotic situation, as in 'the whole thing was a deuce!'

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, 'deuce' represents the integer value of two, serving as the foundation for counting.
  • The concept of pairs in math connects closely to the notion of 'deuce' as two items considered together.
  • In various number systems, even numbers like two play a critical role in higher-level mathematics.

Origin of 'deuce'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Deuce' comes from the Middle French word 'deus,' meaning 'two'.
  • The term has roots in Latin, where 'duo' also means two.
  • In the game of tennis, 'deuce' refers to a tie at 40-40 points, requiring one player to win two consecutive points.

The term 'deuce' finds its origin in the Latin word 'duo', meaning 'two'. It was adopted into Old French as 'deus', which eventually evolved into 'deuce' in Middle English. Initially used primarily in card games and games of chance, the term gradually found its way into sports terminology, particularly tennis, where it denotes a pivotal moment in the game. The adoption of 'deuce' in tennis is relatively recent compared to its use in card games, with tennis standardizing the terminology in the late 19th century. The significance of 'deuce' in various games speaks to its roots in gambling and competitive play, emphasizing the critical nature of scoring in these contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,627, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.