playing card

noun

play·​ing card ˈplā-iŋ- 

: one of a set of 24 to 78 thin rectangular pieces of cardboard or plastic marked on one side to show its rank and suit and used in playing any of numerous games

Examples of playing card in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Gracious Visionary interweaves documentary and reenacted components to tell the story of how his mindset was shaped by learning philosophy, playing cards and the generosity of others. — Nick Vivarelli For Variety, Robb Report, 20 July 2026

The research team conducted a series of experiments using food items, fabric, and even playing cards. — Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 20 July 2026

The younger sons were in their attic room, the oldest out somewhere, wooing the Guidry girl or playing cards with her brothers—when a stronger gust slapped the house. — Literary Hub, 16 July 2026

Some of today’s cleats even weigh in at less than a pack of playing cards. — Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 2 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for playing card

• bodyguard
• boulevard
• disregard
• asgard
• backyard
• barnyard
• blackguard
• bombard
• brickyard
• canard
• churchyard
• coastguard

Kids Definition

playing card

noun

: any of a set of cards marked to show rank and suit (as spades, hearts, diamonds, or clubs) and used in playing games