Early Western lithographers were quick to market cards made specifically for Old Maid the humorous, if slightly sexist, possibilities suggested by the game title provided for many, many versions over the years. Today, an 'old maid' may be any single piece left over when any pairs of items are counted.
The game is known by many other names in different countries and cultures, but the version we know has a permanent place in our culture. Essentially a matching game with one odd card, it can be played with a regular deck by removing any single card. Along with the development of playing cards, Old Maid is thought to have originated in India or China, and then came to Europe, England, and America. Old Maid stands out as one of the earliest card games.
