ace in the hole
English
Etymology
From stud poker in which there is one unknown card called the "hole card;" referring to the optimum "hole card" being an ace.
Noun
ace in the hole (plural aces in the hole)
- (idiomatic, US, informal) A hidden or secret strength, or unrevealed advantage.
- Our ace in the hole left our opponents stupefied; it isn't every day that an NBA star plays street basketball.
Translations
unrevealed advantage
See also
- ace up one's sleeve
- trick up one's sleeve