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Definition of deuce

deuce

/duːs/
deuce
Plural:deuces
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deuce Lexical Profile

deuce Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

In tennis and similar racket sports, a tied score of 40 all (or three points each), after which a player must win two consecutive points to take the game.

Example

"The marathon final game went to deuce six times before the server finally held."

2

A playing card, die face, or domino bearing two pips or the value of two.

Example

"He completed his full house by drawing a deuce on the final turn."

3

A dated informal euphemism for the devil or hell, used in exclamations of annoyance or surprise.

Example

"Who the deuce left the front gate wide open in the middle of a storm?"

Synonyms
View all synonyms for deuce

• Rhymes for deuce

• Nearby Words

detroit river
detroiter
dettifoss
deuce
deuces
deuteronomy
deutoscolex

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 15th century from Old French 'deus' (meaning 'two'), which ultimately derives from the Latin accusative 'duos'. The euphemistic meaning 'the devil' likely arose from dice players cursing the lowest possible throw of two ones.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Deuce. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/deuce
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