card
noun (countable)
UK/kɑːd/US/kɑːrd/
An electronic device used for storing information, such as a credit card, SIM card, or memory card.
Example Sentences
She swiped her credit card to pay for the groceries at the supermarket checkout.
The smartphone requires a SIM card to connect to the cellular network and make calls.
He inserted a memory card into the camera to store the high-resolution photos he was taking.
The employee was issued an ID card that granted access to various sections of the office building.
They used a smart card for secure transactions at the transit gates, eliminating the need for cash.
The gaming console uses a special memory card to save players' progress and high scores.
He kept all his important information on a secure USB card, protecting it from unauthorized access.
The contactless payment card allowed her to make quick and easy purchases without fumbling for cash.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
verb (transitive)
UK/kɑːd/US/kɑːrd/
To check someone's identification, typically in a security or controlled environment.
Example Sentences
The bouncer will card everyone trying to enter the club to ensure they meet the age requirements.
At the airport security checkpoint, officers carefully card passengers by checking their boarding passes and IDs.
During the event, volunteers were assigned to card attendees to manage access and maintain security.
He was asked to card his ID before being granted entry into the restricted area of the building.
The bartender decided to card the patrons more strictly after receiving reports of underage drinking.
To prevent unauthorized access, the system is designed to automatically card visitors entering the facility.
She had to card her membership card to receive discounts at the store, ensuring only members benefited from the offer.
The security guard was instructed to card all vehicles entering the parking lot, verifying the drivers' credentials.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
A small, flat piece used for identification, transactions, or gaming.“Card” is primarily a noun referring to thin, rectangular items that carry crucial or entertaining information. They appear in countless situations: from identification (e.g., driver’s license, membership card) and finance (credit and debit cards) to recreation (playing cards, collectible cards). In everyday life, you might whip out a payment card at a store or show a library card to borrow books. In gaming, decks of cards are central to countless traditional and modern games. “Card” can also function as a verb in certain contexts—for example, some venues may say “We card everyone here,” referring to asking for identification. Moreover, the concept of “card” extends to digital forms, like key cards for electronic locks or greeting cards sent via email. When using “card” in formal communication or writing, specify its purpose. For example, say “credit card” or “ID card” to distinguish between payment, identification, or other uses. In professional contexts, “business card” references a small printout sharing basic info about someone’s role and contact details. In short, the word “card” is broadly adaptable across social, commercial, and entertainment spheres. Recognizing its multiple uses and specifying which type of “card” you’re referring to fosters clarity—especially when dealing with professional or formal scenarios, where precision ensures the reader understands the exact function of the item.
Alternatives
Depending on usage, suitable alternatives range from “pass” or “ticket” when emphasizing access, to “voucher” or “certificate” when highlighting redeemable value. For instance, if you’re discussing entry into a concert, a “ticket” fits better than “card.” If it’s used for store credit, a “voucher” or “gift certificate” may be more appropriate. In professional settings, you might see “badge” or “tag,” especially when referencing security or identification within a company. Meanwhile, for digital transactions, terms like “e-card” or “digital wallet” can come into play. Each option shifts the nuance slightly, reflecting the item’s specific role and context. Synonyms can help you tailor your text to precise circumstances: “badge” can imply authority or security access, while “pass” underscores temporary or limited entry. Overall, choosing the right alternative to “card” depends on whether you’re focusing on identification, payment, entry, or personal expression. By selecting synonyms carefully, you ensure your message stays accurate and resonates with your intended audience, whether discussing event admission, business credentials, or greeting someone for the holidays.
Writing
When writing about “card,” clarify the item’s function. Is it for identification, payment, gaming, or something else? Providing context right away—like stating “employee ID card,” “credit card,” or “playing card”—prevents ambiguity. If your writing centers on an argument, such as security concerns or strategies for marketing with business cards, define each form of “card” thoroughly and highlight relevant aspects, such as ease of use, durability, design, or privacy. Use consistent terminology and maintain focus on how the “card” fits into your broader discussion, whether it’s about consumer behavior, organizational efficiency, or cultural traditions of card playing. Introduce relevant examples, like the shift from traditional swipe cards to contactless payments, to keep your explanation current and relatable. Infographics or bullet points can help break down complex details, particularly if you’re writing a comparison on multiple card types. In essence, strong, well-structured writing about “card” should merge clarity with relevance, making sure readers grasp exactly how it functions in your given context.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, “card” frequently pops up. You might say, “I forgot my debit card at home,” or “We played cards all night.” It’s often clear from context which type of card you mean, so no elaborate explanation is needed. If your friend mentions they got ‘carded’ at a bar, it means they were asked to show ID—nothing fancy in terms of grammar or formality, just a straightforward use. Want to invite buddies over for a fun time? Suggest “card night” and break out some board or card games. There’s no need to dive into technicalities—just keep it casual and let your listeners fill in the meaning from everyday experiences. The word “card” is extremely flexible in daily life: it can represent an invitation, a payment tool, or a deck of 52. Let the situation guide how much detail you share. Usually, the simpler and more direct, the better.
Etymology
The English word “card” comes from the Latin “charta,” meaning “paper” or “a leaf of writing.” Through Old French (“carte”) and Middle English, it gradually took on specific uses, from referencing playing cards to forms of identification and official documents. Over centuries, technological and cultural evolutions have broadened the term’s scope to cover everything from embossed metal “charge cards” in the early days of credit to today’s microchip and magnetic-stripe payment cards. With advancements in digital tech, “card” has expanded to include virtual formats, such as digital greeting cards and e-tickets. Despite these shifts, the core concept remains the same—a small, portable format that conveys specific information or grants access. Whether used to track finances, prove identity, or simply play games, “card” has remained relevant by adapting to changing social, commercial, and technological landscapes.