Hand

It's a great word! (Compeltry.) I'm gonna start using it. Maybe I can fit "chicken fit" in there too, one of my favorite Texas-isms. ("Fit" has several syllables.)

Supposedly the happiest marriages/families are those with an extensive private language.

Hmm, "compeltry"!

got to give you a 'hand' for that one Rog; i'll keep that one 'in hand' for later use! - 'handy'!

but maybe, in reference to your "old lady' comments, it means if she catches you with such thoughts 'in hand', she might be forced to throw (pelt) the family china at you!

if you manage to catch said family china, you undoubtedly have good hands...

Breast your hand is common usage at the bridge table. Meaning you are holding your cards, the hand you were given in plain view and it would be wise to keep the hand close to your chest as only the opposition would she it.