lone hand

American  

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.

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lone hand British  

noun

1. (in card games such as euchre) an independent player or hand played without a partner

2. to operate without assistance

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Etymology

Origin of lone hand

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

Thing, the lone hand played by Romanian magician Victor Dorobantu, perhaps has the most screen time of anyone.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 6, 2025

Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan made an unbeaten 81 off 60 balls for Sussex, last season's semi-finalists, but it was a lone hand in their 150-6.

From BBC • May 26, 2022

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

From The Guardian • Aug. 18, 2018

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

From Washington Post • Jul. 6, 2017

A lone hand and with no hope of a lucky draw.

From The Orphan by Mulford, Clarence E.