What is a Meld?
Meld
A combination of cards that scores points in rummy-style games. There are two types: Sets (3-4 cards of the same rank) and Runs (3+ consecutive cards of the same suit).
Types of Melds
Sets (Groups)
- 3 or 4 cards of the same rank
- Different suits
- Example: 7♥ 7♦ 7♣ (three sevens)
- Example: K♠ K♥ K♦ K♣ (four kings)
Runs (Sequences)
- 3+ consecutive cards
- All same suit
- Example: 4♥ 5♥ 6♥ (run of hearts)
- Example: 9♠ 10♠ J♠ Q♠ K♠ (5-card spade run)
Gin Rummy Hand
Meld 1: 3♥ 3♦ 3♠ (set of threes)
Meld 2: 7♣ 8♣ 9♣ 10♣ (club run)
Deadwood: 5♥ 2♦ K♠ (unmatched cards)
Melding Rules
- A card can only belong to one meld
- Minimum meld size is usually 3 cards
- Aces are typically low only (A-2-3, not Q-K-A)
- In Gin Rummy, melds are revealed at the end, not during play
Melding in Different Games
- Gin Rummy: Keep melds hidden, reveal when "knocking" or going "gin"
- Rummy: Lay down melds openly during your turn
- Canasta: Melds must have 3+ cards, special rules for wild cards