The word "overruff" is spelled as /ˈoʊvərˌrʌf/. It is a rare term used in the card game of bridge, which means to trump a higher card already played by an opponent. The word is composed of the prefix "over" meaning above or beyond, and the verb "ruff" meaning to play a trump card when lacking the suit led. The spelling may seem tricky due to the consonant cluster "rr" and the silent "e" at the end. However, with practice, it can become natural to pronounce and spell correctly.
Overruff is a term used in the game of bridge to describe a specific play or bidding action. In bridge, a ruff refers to the act of playing a trump card to win a trick when void in the suit being played. An overruff occurs when a player not only ruffs a trick but does so with a higher-ranking trump card than the original one played.
As a noun, the term overruff refers to the act of playing a higher trump card to win a trick that has been ruffed by an opponent. It is a strategic move made to gain an advantage by taking control of a trick that would otherwise be won by the opposition. The overruff can be performed by any player, either declarer or defender, depending on the situation and cards held.
Overruff can also be used as a verb, describing the action of playing a higher-ranking trump card to defeat an opponent's ruff. This move often requires careful consideration and analysis of the card distribution in order to accurately assess the optimal timing of the play.
The concept of overruff is an essential part of bridge strategy and can heavily influence the outcome of a game. Skilled players are adept at recognizing opportunities for overruffs and executing them effectively, often seizing control of tricks and gaining an advantage in the process.
The word "overruff" has its origin in the game of bridge.
The term "ruff" in bridge refers to playing a trump card on a trick when unable to follow suit. It comes from the Middle English word "ruffen", meaning to trump. The word "overruff" combines "over", meaning above or beyond, and "ruff".
In bridge, "overruff" specifically refers to playing a higher-ranking trump card on a trick when already trumping a lower-ranking card played by an opponent. This action is often employed to gain control of the trick or to prevent opponents from winning it with their trumps.
Therefore, the word "overruff" has its etymology rooted in the language of bridge, signifying a strategic move in the game.