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

Matthews was playing a lone hand in West Indies' pursuit of 145 for a consolation win at Chelmsford, but a rain delay with 48 runs required from the last 26 balls disrupted the chase.

From BBC • May 26, 2025

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

Well, mamma’s boy played a lone hand and found that ledge of gold ore.

From Ruth Fielding In the Saddle College Girls in the Land of Gold by Emerson, Alice B.