card holder

A union member shows his card holder to the security guard.

Definition

Noun: A person who holds a card, typically a credit card, debit card, or membership card, and is authorized to use it.

Credit or debit card user: An individual who possesses and is authorized to use a plastic card issued by a financial institution for transactions.
Member of an organization: In some contexts, especially in American slang, a "card holder" can refer to a union member (as noted in the reference definition from English-Vietnamese).

Usage Examples

Advanced Usage

"Authorized card holder": A person officially permitted by the issuing institution to use a card, often distinguished from an "additional card holder" (e.g., a family member).
- Only the authorized card holder can make changes to the account. (The primary person named on the card account.)
"Card holder agreement": The legal contract between the card holder and the issuer outlining terms of use.
- Read the card holder agreement carefully to avoid hidden fees. (The contract governing card usage.)

Variants and Related Words

Card (n): A flat, typically rectangular piece of plastic used for identification or payment.
- She placed her card on the counter to pay. (The physical object itself.)
Holder (n): A person who possesses something.
- The holder of the ticket must present it at the gate. (A general term for someone who holds an item.)

Synonyms

Card user: A person who uses a card for transactions.
Card owner: A person who legally possesses a card.
Account holder: A person who owns a financial account, often linked to a card.

Related Idioms

"To hold all the cards": To be in a position of power or advantage.
- In the negotiation, he holds all the cards because he has the best offer. (He has the upper hand.)
"To play one's cards right": To act skillfully to achieve a desired result.
- If she plays her cards right, she might get the promotion. (She uses her advantages wisely.)