euchre

[ yoo-ker ]

noun

1. Cards. a game played by two, three, or four persons, usually with the 32, but sometimes with the 28 or 24, highest cards in the pack.
2. an instance of euchring or being euchred.

verb (used with object)

, eu·chred, eu·chring.

1. to get the better of (an opponent) in a hand at euchre by the opponent's failure to win three tricks after having made the trump.
2. Slang. to cheat; swindle.

euchre

/ ˈjuːkə /

noun

1. a US and Canadian card game similar to écarté for two to four players, using a poker pack with joker
2. an instance of euchring another player, preventing him from making his contracted tricks

verb

1. to prevent (a player) from making his contracted tricks
2. informal.
   usually foll by out to outwit or cheat
3. informal.
   to ruin or exhaust

Word History and Origins

Origin of euchre¹

An Americanism dating back to 1835–45; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of euchre¹

C19: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

Evers, a former schoolteacher who derives pleasure from euchre and polka music, was rewarded by independents for his stalwart defense of voting and abortion rights.

From Washington Post

The Monowi Tavern is a place for those who remain to come together — for birthdays, Sunday night euchre tournaments, family reunions, funeral wakes.

From Seattle Times

Before his death, Danny, as president of the Lewiston 50 Plus Club, led a community center with several hundred members that hosts regular activities: euchre, bingo, exercise classes.

From Washington Post

His favorite meal is an Egg McMuffin, he likes to play pickleball and he has been known to kill time awaiting election night results with a game of euchre.

From Seattle Times

“We could play bezique, or euchre if you’d rather,” he said, the blue and gold dissolving from his hands in a blur.

From Literature