Gambling
'ɡæmblɪŋ
Definitions
2 meaningsTo risk money or something of value on the outcome of a game or event.
'ɡæmbl̩
To play games of chance for money or other stakes.
He gambled on the roulette wheel and lost all his money.
💡 Simply: Imagine you put your allowance on whether your team will win a game. That's gambling – you're taking a chance on something, hoping to win something more!
👶 For kids: Playing games where you try to win money or prizes, but you might lose.
More Examples
She gambled with her reputation by spreading rumors.
I wouldn't gamble with my health by eating so much fast food.
How It's Used
"He gambled his entire savings on the stock market."
"They gambled at the casino all night."
The act of playing games of chance for a stake; the practice or habit of gambling.
'ɡæmblɪŋ
The practice of gambling regularly.
Compulsive gambling can ruin lives.
💡 Simply: Gambling is when people bet money on games or events, hoping to win more. It's like when you buy a lottery ticket or play poker with friends.
👶 For kids: When people play games to try and win money or prizes.
More Examples
The casino is a haven for gambling.
He has a gambling problem that needs addressing.
How It's Used
"Gambling addiction can have severe social consequences."
"Legalized gambling provides tax revenue."
Idioms & expressions
roll the dice
To take a risk or make a decision with uncertain outcomes.
"We're rolling the dice and hoping for the best on this new business venture."
take a gamble
To risk something on the outcome of an uncertain event.
"I decided to take a gamble and invest in the new tech startup."
From Middle English *gamen* ('to play') and related to *game*. The addition of '-bling' suggests a focus on the act of playing games of chance for money or stakes.
The word 'gamble' and related terms have existed for centuries, evolving from simple games to complex financial speculations. Gambling's association with vice and risk is historically well-documented.
Memory tip
Think of the dice rolling – a gamble involves risk and chance.
Word Origin
"To play games of chance; related to 'game'."