Mechanic
In the world of casinos and card games, a “mechanic” refers to a highly skilled player or dealer who can manipulate cards, dice, or other gaming elements to cheat, often without being noticed. These individuals use sleight of hand and deceptive techniques to control the outcome of a game. For example, a card mechanic might secretly stack or switch cards during a deal to ensure a specific result, like a winning hand. While their actions are often illegal in formal settings, mechanics are known for their expertise in misdirection, making them difficult to detect. The term is typically used in reference to those with exceptional mastery of these methods, whether in underground games or as subjects of stories and legends in gambling circles.