tenace

[ ten-eys ]

noun

, Whist, Bridge.

1. a sequence of two high cards of the same suit that lack an intervening card to be in consecutive order, as the ace and queen.

tenace

/ ˈtɛneɪs /

noun

1. bridge whist a holding of two nonconsecutive high cards of a suit, such as the ace and queen

Word History and Origins

Origin of tenace¹

1645–55; < Spanish tenazas tongs, tenace (in card games), derivative of tenaz ≪ Latin tenāx tenacious; compare Medieval Latin tenācēs forceps

Word History and Origins

Origin of tenace¹

C17: from French, from Spanish tenaza forceps, ultimately from Latin tenāx holding fast, from tenēre to hold

Example Sentences

Chez Laferrière, l'habitude tenace de regarder les hommes le fit s'arrêter.

From Project Gutenberg

This, while not nearly so desirable an opening as a singleton, is better than leading from a tenace.

From Project Gutenberg

Elle le savait, c'tait un gars tenace et rsolu, qui ne revenait jamais sur une parole engage.

From Project Gutenberg

Therefore, as a general proposition, unless the partner have declared, the tenace suit should be led.

From Project Gutenberg

A lead from a tenace or a guarded king or queen is to be avoided.

From Project Gutenberg