lone hand

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026

lone′ hand′, 

1. Games [Cards.]
   • a person who holds a hand so strong that he or she can play a deal without the hand of his or her partner.
   • the hand played by such a person.
2. a person who by preference conducts his or her affairs without the advice or assistance of others:
   a lone hand in investment circles.
3. a stand or action taken independently:
   a lone hand in the trade negotiations.
• 1790–1800