noun
Common
kings
kihngz
Kings (noun) means a drinking game played using a standard deck of playing cards, where each card triggers a specific rule or action. Example: “They played kings at the party, with each card assigned a silly rule.”
noun
1
A drinking game played using a standard deck of playing cards, where each card triggers a specific rule or action.
"They played kings at the party, with each card assigned a silly rule."
"Kings is a popular game at student parties, though it can get noisy."
"Let's play kings tonight; I'll bring the cards and you bring the drinks."
How to use kings
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA popular card-based drinking game, or simply the plural of "king."
Common pairings
play kings
a game of kings
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Etymology
The plural of "king," referencing both the multiple rulers and the deck of cards used in the game.
Synonyms
View more →
Kings Cup
Ring of Fire
Circle of Death
King's Cup
Rhymes for kings
See all rhymes for kings →Frequently asked questions
What does “kings” mean?
The word “kings” means a drinking game played using a standard deck of playing cards, where each card triggers a specific rule or action. In plain terms, a popular card-based drinking game, or simply the plural of "king.".
How do you pronounce “kings”?
“Kings” is pronounced kihngz (/kɪŋz/ in IPA).
How do you use “kings” in a sentence?
Here is “kings” used in a sentence: “They played kings at the party, with each card assigned a silly rule.”
What part of speech is “kings”?
“Kings” is a noun.
Is “kings” a common word?
“Kings” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What else is the game Kings called?
Kings goes by many names. It is widely known as Kings Cup, Ring of Fire, and Circle of Death, and sometimes King's Cup. The names all describe the same basic setup: a deck spread in a ring around a central cup, with each card triggering its own rule.
How do you play Kings?
Players sit in a circle and spread a shuffled deck face-down around a central cup. Taking turns, each person draws a card, and its rank triggers a set action or rule agreed by the group. Play continues around the circle until the cards run out, following whatever house rules apply.
What do the cards mean in Kings?
Each card rank is tied to a rule or action, though the exact meanings vary from group to group. Common ones include 'waterfall', 'make a rule', 'categories', and 'never have I ever'. Because the rules are not fixed, players usually agree on the meaning of each card before starting.
Can Kings be played without alcohol?
Yes. Although Kings is traditionally a drinking game, the rules work with any beverage. Players can substitute water, soft drinks, or juice and follow exactly the same card actions. This keeps the social, turn-based fun of the game while removing the alcohol, making it suitable for all-ages gatherings.
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