chemin de fer

[ shuh-man duh fair; French shuh-man duh fer ]

noun

, Cards.

1. a variation of baccarat.

chemin de fer

/ ʃəˈmæn də ˈfɛə; ʃəmɛ̃dfɛr /

noun

1. a gambling game, a variation of baccarat

Word History and Origins

Origin of chemin de fer¹

1890–95; < French: literally, railroad; so called from the speed of the game

Word History and Origins

Origin of chemin de fer¹

French: railway, referring to the fast tempo of the game

Example Sentences

With the now-signature checkered chemin de fer design around the perimeter of the face and distinct Roman numerals, the Tank’s rigorously linear design was a radical departure from the era’s traditionally round watches.

From New York Times

A form of baccarat called "chemin de fer" was played by James Bond in the casino scene of the 1962 film Dr No.

From BBC

An exclusive excerpt from LIFE's new book, '50 Years of James Bond' The air is electric at this posh London casino, where a beautiful woman has been losing big at chemin de fer.

From Time

"I am here," he said, in an undertone, "as agent commercial du chemin de fer Ottoman."

From Project Gutenberg

There were not wanting those who said that his retirement was more or less compulsory owing to rather too pronounced successes while holding the bank at baccarat or chemin de fer.

From Project Gutenberg