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

But these dynamics are uncertain in a play that treats identity like a game of three-card monte.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 3, 2024

In the wide-open world of grifts and schemes, an overinflated basketball may not rank with identity theft, Facebook come-ons from a Nigerian prince or even a hurried game of three-card monte.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 18, 2023

Another Pulitzer winner now in a blistering Broadway revival, Suzan-Lori Parks’s “Topdog/Underdog,” features as its dramatic linchpin the art of the street hustle, in three-card monte.

From Washington Post • Nov. 29, 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