bezique

[ buh-zeek ]

noun

, Cards.

1. a game resembling pinochle, originally played with 64 cards and now more commonly with 128 cards and, sometimes, 192 or 256 cards.

bezique

/ bɪˈziːk /

noun

1. a card game for two or more players with tricks similar to whist but with additional points scored for honours and sequences: played with two packs with nothing below a seven
2. (in this game) the queen of spades and jack of diamonds declared together

Word History and Origins

Origin of bezique¹

1860–65; < French bésigue, bézigue, perhaps < Italian bazzica a similar game, derived variously from bazza trump card, stroke of luck, or bazzicare to frequent, haunt

Word History and Origins

Origin of bezique¹

C19: from French bésigue , of unknown origin

Example Sentences

“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

I had to lunch with Mrs. Van Hopper in her room, because the nurse was going out, and afterwards she would make me play bezique with all the tireless energy of the convalescent.

From Literature

She used this word with angry scorn, as symbol of all degeneracy; and also despised pinochle, refusing to learn it, though any one could induce her to play bezique.

From Project Gutenberg

Lady Bligh and Sir James were deep in their game of bezique.

From Project Gutenberg

“Double bezique!” shouted Mark; “and all the money’s mine!”

From Project Gutenberg