In plural. The game of backgammon; (also, esp. in early use) a similar game; any board game played with dice. Frequently in to play at (the) tables…

A game played on a board consisting of two tables (usually united by a hinge), with draughtmen whose moves are determined by throws of the dice.

= backgammon, n. 1. Now somewhat rare.

backgammon, n.; a ‘game’ at backgammon.