Cribbage

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈkrɪbɪdʒ/

Definitions

• Noun: A card game traditionally played with two to four players in which the objective is to score points by forming combinations of cards, such as pairs, runs, and fifteens, while also utilizing a crib (a separate set of cards) to generate additional points.
• Noun: The scoring board used in the game, consisting of pegs and holes to track the points accumulated by each player.

Usage Examples

• "They spent the evening playing a few rounds of cribbage, enjoying each other's company."
• "He marked the score on the cribbage board with his pegs after scoring a perfect hand."

Etymology

The word "cribbage" likely originates from the early 17th century, from the term "crib," referring to the small set of cards that players discard into a separate pile during the game. The game was invented in England, and its name may be linked to a variant of a 16th-century game called "Noddy." The term "cribbage" is believed to be derived from the word "crib," which refers to a "small collection" of cards in the game.

Synonyms

• Card game
• Crib
• Fifteen

Antonyms

• None (Cribbage is a unique card game with no direct antonym)

Translations

Translations in Indian Languages

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In different regions, especially across the United Kingdom and North America, the pronunciation of "cribbage" may vary slightly, with some regions emphasizing the first syllable ("CRIB-bidge") and others stressing the second syllable ("crib-BIDGE"). The pronunciation tends to be fairly consistent internationally, with minor regional differences.

Historical Usage

Cribbage has a long history, dating back to the 17th century in England. It was developed by Sir John Suckling, a poet and card player, who adapted the game of Noddy to include a scoring system involving the crib. The game gained popularity in England and later spread to other parts of the world, especially in colonial areas. In the United States, cribbage became a popular pastime in the 19th century. Today, cribbage remains a classic card game enjoyed by many across generations.

Cultural Nuances

Cribbage has held a special place in British culture, often seen as a game for social gatherings, especially among soldiers during wartime. It has been associated with camaraderie and light-hearted competition. In American culture, cribbage is similarly associated with family gatherings, where the game is passed down through generations. While many people play cribbage for fun, it also has a competitive aspect, with tournaments held around the world.

More Information

Cribbage is a popular card game played by two to four players, with each player trying to accumulate points by forming specific card combinations such as pairs, runs, and fifteens. The game is traditionally played using a cribbage board, where pegs are moved to track the score. The game consists of two main phases: the "play," where players take turns playing cards to form runs and pairs, and the "show," where players reveal their hand and the crib. Cribbage requires strategy and an understanding of card combinations, making it both a fun and mentally stimulating game.