card (cards plural )
1 n-count A card is a piece of stiff paper or thin cardboard on which something is written or printed.
Check the numbers below against the numbers on your card.
2 n-count A card is a piece of cardboard or plastic, or a small document, which shows information about you and which you carry with you, for example to prove your identity.
They check my bag and press card.
3 n-count A card is a rectangular piece of plastic, issued by a bank, company, or shop, which you can use to buy things or obtain money.
He paid the whole bill with an American Express card...
4 n-count A card is a folded piece of stiff paper with a picture and sometimes a message printed on it, which you send to someone on a special occasion.
She sends me a card on my birthday.
5 n-count A card is the same as a postcard.
Send your details on a card to the following address.
6 n-count A card is a piece of thin cardboard carried by someone such as a business person in order to give to other people. A card shows the name, address, telephone number, and other details of the person who carries it. (BUSINESS)
(=business card)
Here's my card. You may need me.
7 n-count Cards are thin pieces of cardboard with numbers or pictures printed on them which are used to play various games.
(=playing card)
...a pack of cards...
8 n-uncount If you are playing cards, you are playing a game using cards.
They enjoy themselves drinking wine, smoking and playing cards.
9 n-count You can use card to refer to something that gives you an advantage in a particular situation. If you play a particular card, you use that advantage.
It was his strongest card in their relationship<endash>that she wanted him more than he wanted her...
10 n-uncount Card is strong, stiff paper or thin cardboard.
She put the pieces of card in her pocket.
11
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bank card
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business card
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calling card
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cash card
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cheque card
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Christmas card
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credit card
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gold card
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identity card
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index card
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payment card
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place card
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playing card
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report card
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smart card
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wild card
12 If you say that something is on the cards in British English, or in the cards in American English, you mean that it is very likely to happen.
♦
on the cards phrase
(=likely) (Antonym: unlikely)
Last summer she began telling friends that a New Year marriage was on the cards.
13 If you say that someone will achieve success if they play their cards right, you mean that they will achieve success if they act skilfully and use the advantages that they have.
♦
play one's cards right phrase
He could even be the next manager of the England team if he plays his cards right.
14 If you put or lay your cards on the table, you deal with a situation by speaking openly about your feelings, ideas, or plans.
♦
put/lay one's cards on the table phrase
Put your cards on the table and be very clear about your complaints.
