gamble
noun
- process of taking a chance
verb
- bet on something
- to take a risk for a chance at better returns, to take a risk, taking a risk with
Wiktionary
Pronunciation: /ˈɡæm.bəl/
name
Etymology: From the Old Norse byname gamall (“old”), which was occasionally used in North England during the Middle Ages as a personal name.
- A surname from Old Norse.
noun
Etymology: From earlier gamel, from Middle English *gamlen, *gamelen, variant of Middle English gamenen, from Old English gæmnian, gamnian, gamenian (“to joke; play”), related to Old English gamen (“joy; mirth; pleasure; entertainment; pastime; sport; game”), equivalent to game + -le. Compare Old Danish gammel, Middle High German gamel (“pleasure; fun”). More at game.
- A bet or wager.
“I had a gamble on the horses last weekend.”
- A significant risk, undertaken with a potential gain.
- A risky venture.
“The sailors had taken many gambles with the sea and always won.”
verb
Etymology: From earlier gamel, from Middle English *gamlen, *gamelen, variant of Middle English gamenen, from Old English gæmnian, gamnian, gamenian (“to joke; play”), related to Old English gamen (“joy; mirth; pleasure; entertainment; pastime; sport; game”), equivalent to game + -le. Compare Old Danish gammel, Middle High German gamel (“pleasure; fun”). More at game.
- To take a risk, with the potential of a positive outcome.
- To play risky games, especially casino games, for monetary gain.
“Mark won half a million dollars gambling on horses.”
- To risk (something) for potential gain.
“He gambled his reputation on the outcome.”
- To interact with equipment at a casino.