How Do You Spell IN SPADES?

Pronunciation: [ɪn spˈe͡ɪdz] (IPA)

The phrase "in spades" means to have something in abundance or to a great extent. The spelling of the word "spades" is unique because it does not follow the common spelling pattern of using "e" after "a" to make the "long a" sound. Instead, "spades" is spelled with an "a" followed by a "d" and then an "e" pronounced with a "long a" sound /speɪdz/. Though peculiar, this spelling is consistent with other words that end with "ade" and have a "long a" sound, like "jade" and "trade."

IN SPADES Meaning and Definition

1. "In spades" is an idiomatic expression that can be used in different contexts to emphasize or intensify a certain quality or characteristic. It is often used to describe the presence or abundance of something, indicating that there is an ample or even excessive amount of it.

   In card games, the spades suit is one of the four suits, known for its high value. Thus, when something is said to be "in spades," it means that it is present in great quantity or quality, surpassing expectations. The term is commonly used to convey an augmentation of a specific attribute or feature associated with a person or a situation.

   For example, if someone is described as having talent "in spades," it means that they possess an exceptional level of talent, far beyond what is typically found. Similarly, if an event is said to be entertaining "in spades," it signifies that it is extraordinarily enjoyable or captivating.

   The expression originates from the practice in card games of using spades as a trump suit, which overrides other suits. Therefore, "in spades" can also signify something that dominates or prevails over others. It can emphasize that a particular characteristic or aspect is superior or unparalleled.

   Overall, using "in spades" conveys the notion of excellence, abundance, or prominence, highlighting the remarkable extent or superiority of a given quality or attribute.

Common Misspellings for IN SPADES

• un spades
• jn spades
• kn spades
• on spades
• 9n spades
• 8n spades
• ib spades
• im spades
• ij spades
• ih spades
• in apades
• in zpades
• in xpades
• in dpades
• in epades
• in wpades
• in soades
• in slades
• in s-ades

Etymology of IN SPADES

The phrase "in spades" comes from the card game of Bridge, where "spades" refers to one of the four suits in the game. In Bridge, spades is the highest-ranking suit, followed by hearts, diamonds, and clubs. The term "in spades" originated in the early 20th century and means to have something in abundance or to an extreme degree, as if one possessed all the high-ranking cards of the suit of spades. It has since been adopted into general English usage to convey emphasis, intensity, or superiority.

Idioms with the word IN SPADES

• in spades "In spades" is an idiomatic expression that means to a very high degree or amount, in abundance, or with great intensity. It is often used to emphasize a particular quality or characteristic.

Similar spelling words for IN SPADES

• insipid,
• incapable,
• insipidly,
• inspan,
• insipidness,
• insipidity,
• in spite of,
• inkpad.