The word "capot" is not commonly used in English, but it is a term used in the card game of piquet to refer to winning all the tricks. The word is pronounced /kaˈpəʊ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The spelling of this word can be analyzed as follows: the "c" is pronounced as /k/, the "a" is pronounced as /ə/, the "p" is pronounced as /p/, the "o" as /əʊ/, and the "t" as /t/. The stress of the word is on the first syllable, as indicated by the accent mark.
Capot is a term primarily used in the game of piquet, a two-player card game, to describe a particularly advantageous move or combination of cards that results in the player winning all the tricks in a given hand. This term is derived from the French word "capot," which means "hood" or "bonnet," and is often used metaphorically to indicate a form of total victory or domination.
To achieve a capot, a player must possess an exceptional hand, typically consisting of high-ranking cards across various suits. This allows them to outplay their opponent in each trick and successfully capture all the cards on the table during a single round. Achieving a capot not only provides the player with a significant lead in terms of points but can also be psychologically demoralizing for the opponent.
Capot represents the epitome of success in the context of piquet, highlighting the skill and strategic acumen of the player who manages to accomplish it. As a result, it is often regarded as a prestigious achievement and an indication of prowess in the game. While capot is most frequently used in reference to piquet, the term can also be extended to other card games where a similar objective of winning all tricks exists, albeit with variations in rules and gameplay.
• A winning of all the tricks of cards at the game of piquet.
• To win at piquet.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "capot" is derived from the French language. Its etymology can be traced back to the Old French word "capote", which was used to refer to a hooded cloak or cape worn by men. Over time, the meaning of "capote" evolved to also signify a card game in which the player wins all the tricks or takes all the cards – known as "faire capot". This eventually led to the development of the term "capot", which is now used in various card games, including the popular French game of Belote, to describe the act of winning all the tricks or taking all the cards.