sharper
/'ʃɑ:pə/
Definition
Noun: A person who cheats or swindles others, especially in gambling or card games; a dishonest trickster who uses deception for personal gain.
Usage
The word "sharper" is used to describe a person, typically a professional, who engages in cheating, often in the context of gambling. It carries a strong negative connotation of dishonesty and exploitation.
Examples
- The police warned tourists about sharpers operating near the casino district.
- In the old western film, the cowboy lost all his money to a sharper at the poker table.
- He was known as a sharper who could manipulate cards with incredible skill.
Advanced Usage
- "Card sharper": This is a more specific term for a person who cheats at card games. While "sharper" alone implies this context, "card sharper" makes it explicit.
- The saloon was notorious for being a haven for card sharpers.
Variants and Related Words
- Sharp (adjective): While primarily meaning having a fine edge or point, in informal contexts, "sharp" can describe a person who is clever or shrewd, sometimes bordering on dishonesty. It is the root adjective from which "sharper" is derived.
- He's a sharp businessman, always finding an advantage.
- Sharpen (verb): To make something sharp. Not directly related to the dishonest meaning of "sharper."
Synonyms
- Swindler: A person who uses deception to deprive someone of money or possessions.
- Cheat: A person who acts dishonestly to gain an advantage.
- Trickster: A person who deceives or plays tricks.
- Con artist: A person who cheats others by gaining their trust.
Related Idioms & Phrases
- Sharp practice: Dishonest or barely legal dealings, especially in business.
- The company was accused of sharp practice in its accounting methods.
Noun
-
a professional card player who makes a living by cheating at card games
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