Fi`nesse" (? ∨ ?), n. [F., fr. fin fine. See Fine, a.]

1.

Subtilty of contrivance to gain a point; artifice; stratagem.

This is the artificialest piece of finesse to persuade men into slavery. Milton.

2. Whist Playing

The act of finessing. See Finesse, v. i., 2.

© Webster 1913.

Fi*nesse" (?), v. i. [imp. & p. p. Finessed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Finessing.]

1.

To use artifice or stratagem.

Goldsmith.

2. Whist Playing

To attempt, when second or third player, to make a lower card answer the purpose of a higher, when an intermediate card is out, risking the chance of its being held by the opponent yet to play.

© Webster 1913.