bum-card

A player discreetly examines a bum-card in his hand.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A marked playing card used for cheating: "bum-card" refers to a playing card that has been secretly marked on the back, typically to gain an unfair advantage in a card game. This term is specific to dishonest gambling or trickery.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The gambler was caught using a bum-card to identify the ace of spades. (A marked card used to cheat.)
  • He slipped a bum-card into the deck to ensure his victory. (A card with a hidden mark.)

Advanced Usage

• "to play a bum-card": to use a marked card in a game for cheating.
  • The dealer accused him of playing a bum-card during the poker match. (Using a dishonestly marked card.)

Variants and Related Words

• Bum (adj): of poor quality; worthless (but in this compound, "bum" specifically means "marked" or "fraudulent").
  • That trick was a bum move. (A dishonest or inferior action.)
• Card-sharp (n): a person who cheats at cards.
  • The card-sharp relied on bum-cards to win. (A cheater using marked cards.)

Synonyms

• Marked card: a card with a distinguishing feature for cheating.
• Loaded card: a card rigged to give an advantage.
• Ringer: a substituted item meant to deceive.

Related Idioms

• Up one's sleeve: having a secret advantage or trick.
  • He had a bum-card up his sleeve for the final round. (A hidden cheat.)
• Stack the deck: to arrange cards dishonestly.
  • They stacked the deck with bum-cards to ensure a win. (Prearranged cheating.)