eldest hand

American  

Or elder hand

noun

Cards.

1. the player on the dealer's left.

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Etymology

Origin of eldest hand

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

“Bridge,”—when the score of the eldest hand is four to one or four to two in his favor.

From The Laws of Euchre As adopted by the Somerset Club of Boston, March 1, 1888 by Leeds, Herbert Corey

After the deal the players bid for the trump in turn, commencing with the eldest hand.

From Games For All Occasions by Blain, Mary E.

The eldest hand may not, however, have cards that would justify his attempting either of the things specified.

From Hoyle's Games Modernized by Hoffmann, Louis

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.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 5, Slice 5 "Cat" to "Celt" by Various

If he draw an eight, which will make just fifteen, he, as being eldest hand, is sure of winning the game.

From Enquire Within Upon Everything The Great Victorian Domestic Standby by Anonymous