thimblerig Definition
a swindling trick in which a small ball or pea is quickly shifted from under one to another of three small cups to fool the spectator guessing its location.
Using thimblerig: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "thimblerig" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The street performer was caught playing thimblerig with tourists.
Example
He lost all his money playing thimblerig with the con artist.
Example
Thimblerig is an illegal gambling game in many countries.
thimblerig Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for thimblerig
- shell game
- three-card monte
Phrases with thimblerig
play thimblerig
to participate in the game of thimblerig
Example
He was arrested for playing thimblerig on the street corner.
a person who cheats others by using the game of thimblerig
Example
The thimblerigger was caught red-handed by the police.
the act of cheating others by using the game of thimblerig
Example
Thimblerigging is a common scam in tourist areas.
Origins of thimblerig
from thimble + rig, meaning 'to swindle'
Summary: thimblerig in Brief
'Thimblerig' [ˈθɪmblərɪɡ] is a noun that refers to a swindling trick where a small ball or pea is moved between three small cups to deceive the spectator. It is also known as 'shell game' or 'three-card monte.' The game is illegal in many countries and often played by con artists on the streets to cheat tourists.
