A playing card is one of a set of cards used for games, usually rectangular pieces of stiff paper with numbers, pictures, or symbols printed on them. A standard deck contains 52 cards divided into four suits: hearts, diamonds, clubs, and spades. Each suit has cards numbered 2 through 10, plus a jack, queen, king, and ace.

People have played card games for centuries, using these simple tools to create thousands of different games. Some games like Go Fish or War are simple enough for young children, while others like bridge require strategy and skill that takes years to master. Card games can be played alone (like solitaire), with one other person, or in large groups.

Playing cards are incredibly versatile. Magicians use them for tricks and illusions. Some people build elaborate card houses, carefully stacking cards to create towers and pyramids. Others collect unusual or beautiful decks from around the world. The same 52 cards that might be used for a friendly game of Crazy Eights at your kitchen table could also be used in a serious tournament, a magic show, or even for fortune telling.

Beyond the standard deck, special playing cards exist for games like Uno or Pokémon, which have their own unique rules and designs.