cards

British  

/ kɑːdz /

noun

1. (usually functioning as singular)

   1. any game or games played with cards, esp playing cards

   2. the playing of such a game

2. an employee's national insurance and other documents held by the employer

3. to be told to leave one's employment

4. US equivalent: in the cards.  possible or likely

5. to carry out one's plans; take action (esp in the phrase play one's cards right )

6. to declare one's intentions, resources, etc

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Example Sentences

And a cultural change was hitting the business hard: In a digital economy dominated by smartphones and tap-to-pay credit cards, revenue steadily declined as the machines became harder to use in everyday life.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 14, 2026

We knew eventually a move back home to our native Michigan was in the cards, and therefore a car would be needed.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 13, 2026

Another new law is second yellow cards leading to a red card can be reviewed, but not first yellow cards.

From BBC • Jun. 13, 2026

In this week’s Don’t Short Yourself newsletter, Beth Pinsker lays out sound advice for parents and students on how to begin using credit cards.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 12, 2026

She sent belated birthday cards and random newspaper clippings about people Janet didn’t know.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith