lone hand

noun

1. Cards.
   1. a person who holds a hand so strong that they can play a deal without the hand of their partner.
   2. the hand played by a person whose hand is strong enough to play a deal without a partner.
2. a person who by preference conducts their affairs without the advice or assistance of others:

   She is known as a lone hand in investment circles.

3. a stand or action taken independently:

   A lone hand in the trade negotiations threw off all plans.

lone hand

noun

1. (in card games such as euchre) an independent player or hand played without a partner
2. play a lone hand
   to operate without assistance

Word History and Origins

Origin of lone hand¹

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

Jonny Bairstow was caught down the leg side off the first ball of the chase and Joe Root followed for 13, leaving Ben Stokes to play a lone hand as he threatened another special knock.

From BBC

Once again, Kohli will have to play a lone hand – though Pant could be an exciting partner for him.

From The Guardian

When the applause fades, we see a lone hand holding a quill to parchment.

From Washington Post

When England's pace bowlers ran through the top order, he looked to be playing a lone hand, with effortless drives on both sides of the wicket and breathless running.

From BBC

In the darkened room, a lone hand shot up.

From Forbes