spelicans

Definition
  1. Noun (plural in form, usually treated as singular):
    • A game of skill: "spelicans" refers to a game in which small sticks or splints (traditionally made of wood, bone, or ivory) are piled in a heap, and players attempt to remove them one at a time without moving or disturbing the others.
    • The pieces used in the game: The term can also denote the individual sticks or splints themselves, which are often decorated or shaped for identification.
Usage Examples
  • (They engaged in the game of removing sticks from a pile.)
  • (He removed one of the game pieces.)
  • (The game demands manual dexterity.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to play at spelicans": to participate in the game.

    • They played at spelicans by the fireside. (They enjoyed the game in a cozy setting.)

  • "a game of spelicans": a specific instance or round of the game.

    • She won a game of spelicans against her brother. (She succeeded in removing sticks without disturbing the pile.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Spilikin (n): an alternative spelling or variant of "spelican," referring to the same game or pieces.

    • He collected antique spilikins made of ivory. (He gathered old game pieces.)

  • Jackstraws (n): a synonym for the game, often used interchangeably, though "jackstraws" specifically refers to a similar game using straws or thin sticks.

    • The game of jackstraws is identical to spelicans. (They are the same activity.)
Synonyms

  • Pick-up sticks: a modern commercial version of the game, using coloured sticks.

    • Pick-up sticks is a popular variant of spelicans. (It is a similar game with different materials.)

  • Jackstraws: another name for the game, especially in older English.

    • Jackstraws is an old term for spelicans. (It is a synonym.)
Related Idioms

  • To have a steady hand like a spelican player: to be very precise and careful.

    • She has a steady hand like a spelican player when threading a needle. (She is extremely dexterous.)

  • To play a game of nerves like spelicans: to engage in a delicate, tense activity.

    • Negotiating the contract was like playing a game of nerves like spelicans. (It required extreme caution.)