Collins English-English Dictionary

card [kɑːd]

1. 1. n a piece of stiff paper or thin cardboard, usually rectangular, with varied uses, as for filing information in an index, bearing a written notice for display, entering scores in a game, etc

2. 2. n [horse racing] race card a daily programme of all the races at a meeting, listing the runners, riders, weights to be carried, distances to be run, and conditions of each race

3. 3. n such a card used for identification, reference, proof of membership, etc

   library card

   identity card

   visiting card

4. 4. n such a card used for sending greetings, messages, or invitations, often bearing an illustration, printed greetings, etc

   Christmas card

   birthday card

5. 5. n one of a set of small pieces of cardboard, variously marked with significant figures, symbols, etc, used for playing games or for fortune-telling

6. 6. n short for playing card

7. 7. n (as modifier)

   a card game

8. 8. n (in combination)

   cardsharp

9. 9. n [informal] a witty, entertaining, or eccentric person

10. 10. n short for cheque card

11. 11. n See compass card

12. 12. n a thing or action used in order to gain an advantage, esp one that is concealed and kept in reserve until needed (esp in the phrase a card up one's sleeve)

13. 13. n short for printed circuit card - See printed circuit

14. 14. n See also cards

15. 15. n [Etymology] C15: from Old French carte, from Latin charta leaf of papyrus, from Greek khartes, probably of Egyptian origin

card [kɑːd]

1. 1. vt. [tr] to comb out and clean fibres of wool or cotton before spinning

2. 2. n (formerly) a machine or comblike tool for carding fabrics or for raising the nap on cloth

3. 3. n [Etymology] C15: from Old French carde card, teasel, from Latin carduus thistle