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.