ace

ace · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A playing card with a single pip, ranked as the highest or lowest card in most games.

  2. 2.

    (Tennis) A serve that the opponent cannot return.

  3. 3.

    A person who excels at a particular sport or activity.

  4. 4.

    (Aviation) A pilot who has shot down many enemy aircraft.

  5. 5.

    Excellent; outstanding.

  6. 6.

    To perform extremely well on a test or in an activity.

Forms

plural: aces

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    ace in the hole — A hidden advantage; a secret resource.
  • •
    ace up one's sleeve — A secret advantage kept in reserve.
  • •
    within an ace of — Very close to.
  • •
    hold all the aces — To be in a powerful position.

Related words

Antonyms: beginner, novice
See also: aces, card, champion, expert
Synonyms: champion, expert, master, star

Etymology

From Old French as, from Latin as ("a unit, a whole"), referring to a single pip on a die or card.