eldest hand

Or elder hand

noun

Cards.

1. the player on the dealer's left.

Word History and Origins

Origin of eldest hand¹

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

Auction Hearts.—In this the eldest hand examines his hand and bids a certain number of counters for the privilege of naming the suit to be got rid of, but without naming the suit.

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If the dealer's partner pass the declaration to the dealer, the eldest hand may demand: I. That there shall be a new deal.

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The eldest hand then announces that he will make a certain number of tricks provided he may name the trump, or lose a certain number without trumps.

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The eldest hand leads any card he chooses and all must follow suit if able, the penalty for a revoke being the loss of the game.

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The eldest hand begins the game by playing a card in one of three ways.

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