Definition

Noun: A charge card is a payment card, typically made of plastic, issued by a financial company. It allows the cardholder to make purchases on credit. The issuer guarantees the seller that the cardholder has a satisfactory credit standing and that the seller will receive payment for the delivered goods or services. Unlike some credit cards, the balance on a charge card typically must be paid in full each billing cycle.

Usage

A charge card is used as a method of payment at merchants, both in physical stores and online. It is presented or its details are provided to authorize a transaction, with the promise of future payment from the card issuer to the merchant.

Examples

• "I prefer using my charge card for business expenses to simplify accounting."
• "The store clerk asked, 'Do you take plastic?' referring to credit and charge cards."
• "With a charge card, you are expected to pay the entire balance when the statement arrives."

Advanced Usage

• Corporate charge cards are often issued to employees for company-related purchases, providing centralized billing and spending controls.
• The phrase "to put it on the card" often implies using a charge or credit card for payment.

Variants and Related Words

• Credit Card (n): A similar payment card that allows revolving credit, meaning the cardholder can carry a balance from month to month with interest charges.
• Debit Card (n): A payment card that deducts funds directly from the cardholder's bank account at the time of transaction.
• Payment Card (n): A general term for all types of cards used to make electronic payments.
• Charge Account (n): The underlying account associated with a charge card.

Synonyms

• Credit card (in general usage, though there are technical differences)
• Plastic (slang)
• Payment card

Related Phrases

• "Do you take plastic?": A common informal question asking if a merchant accepts credit or charge cards.
• "Run the card" or "Swipe the card": Instructions to process a payment using a charge card.

Noun

1. a card (usually plastic) that assures a seller that the person using it has a satisfactory credit rating and that the issuer will see to it that the seller receives payment for the merchandise delivered
   • do you take plastic?