IPA: /ˈbæŋkoʊ/
KK: /bæŋkoʊ/
A word used to announce a bet in some gambling games.
He shouted 'banco' when he placed his bet at the table.
A total amount of money that a banker is willing to accept in certain gambling games.
He placed a large banco on the table, hoping for a big win.
The word 'banco' originates from Italian 'banco', meaning a bench or table, which was used by moneylenders in medieval times. It reflects the physical place where financial transactions took place.
Think of a 'bench' or 'table' where moneylenders conducted their business — that's why 'banco' refers to a bank.