Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English homepage

Date: 1300-1400
Language: Old French
Origin: as, from Latin, 'unit, a small coin'

ace

1 noun
     
Related topics: Cards, Sport, Tennis
ace1 [countable]
1

playing card

DGC a playing card with a single spot on it, which usually has the highest value in a game:
the ace of hearts
I've got a pair of aces.
2

skilful person

someone who is extremely skilful at doing something:
a soccer ace
cycling ace Chris Boardman
3

tennis shot

DSTDS a first shot in tennis or volleyball which is hit so well that your opponent cannot reach the ball and you win the point
4

hold the aces

to have the advantages in a situation so that you are sure to win:
The Americans hold most of the aces in this technology.
5

within an ace of (doing) something

very close to doing or achieving something:
The team came within an ace of winning the championship.
6

have an ace up your sleeve

to have a secret advantage which could help you to win or be successful
7

ace in the hole

American English informal something that you keep secretly to use when you need it:
That fifty dollars is my ace in the hole.
Definition from the Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English
Advanced Learner's Dictionary.

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