Definition

A person who cheats at card games, often by using tricks or deception.

Example

The cardsharper was caught trying to swindle the players at the poker table.

Conversation

Did you hear about that cardsharper who was caught at the casino last night?

Yeah, I saw it on the news! It's crazy how they always find a way to cheat.

I wonder how they manage to pull it off without getting caught first.

It's all about the tricks they learn; some people are just really good at it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cardsharper is formed from "card" (from Old French *carte*, meaning a playing card) and "sharper" (from the verb "to sharpen", meaning to make keen or acute). The term refers to someone who uses skill or trickery to gain an advantage in card games, often implying deceit.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is skilled at making their card-playing abilities 'keen' or 'sharp' — that's why a cardsharper is someone who tricks others in card games.

Visually Confused Words