Pronunciation: [lˈɪtə͡l slˈam] (IPA) 
The spelling of "little slam" accurately reflects its phonetic pronunciation, which can be transcribed as /ˈlɪtəl slæm/. The stress is on the first syllable of "little" and the second syllable of "slam." The "i" in "little" is pronounced as a short "i" sound, and the "a" in "slam" is pronounced as a short "a" sound. Overall, the word is easy to spell and accurately reflects the sounds used in its pronunciation.
Little slam refers to a term used in contract bridge, which is a trick-taking card game typically played by four players in two partnerships. It denotes a specific achievement in the game that signals a significant accomplishment and scoring bonus for a partnership.
In bridge, a slam refers to the contract of bidding and making twelve tricks. A little slam, on the other hand, is a contract of bidding and making twelve out of thirteen possible tricks, falling just short of the maximum score attainable. It is one level below the grand slam, which refers to bidding and making all thirteen tricks.
The achievement of a little slam is highly valued in bridge as it demonstrates a high level of skill and precision. Partnerships often strive to reach this level as it can greatly enhance their overall score and chances of winning the game. The bonus points awarded for successfully achieving a little slam help to boost a partnership's total points, leading to a more significant victory.
Achieving a little slam requires thorough strategic planning, proficient bidding techniques, astute cardplay, and precise communication between partners. Successfully accomplishing a little slam can greatly influence the outcome of a bridge match, as it sets a partnership apart from their opponents, showcasing their superior card-playing abilities and elevating their chances of success.
The term "little slam" originated from the card game Contract Bridge. In bridge, a slam is a contract to win all thirteen tricks. There are two types of slams: small slam (also known as "little slam") and grand slam. The term "slam" itself comes from the game Whist, which predates bridge and refers to a hand in which a player wins all thirteen tricks. Over time, as the game of bridge evolved, the terms "small slam" and "little slam" became synonymous with each other, describing the successful completion of a contract to win twelve of the thirteen tricks.
