three-card monte

[three-kahrd] / ˈθriˌkɑrd /

NOUN

gambling game

Synonyms

WEAK

shell game thimblerig

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

These characters are fluent in three-card monte rap, no cards required.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 5, 2025

Yet racing, at times, plays its fatality numbers as if it were a game of three-card monte.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2024

If you see anyone playing three-card monte or a shell game, just keep walking.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 28, 2023

In a seedy rooming house apartment, as one man rehearses his three-card monte spiel — “watch me close, watch me close now” — Abraham Lincoln arrives with Chinese takeout.

From New York Times • Oct. 20, 2022

Yakov won the first two games, but when it came time to find the Lady at three-card monte, he uncovered a worthless heart.

From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros