IPA: /ˈɡæm.bəl/
KK: /ˈɡæmbl/
To take a risk by betting on something uncertain, often in hopes of winning money or gaining something valuable.
He decided to gamble on the outcome of the game, hoping to win some money.
Past: gambled
Past Participle: gambled
A risk taken in a situation where the outcome is uncertain, often involving betting or wagering money.
Taking a gamble on the stock market can lead to big rewards or significant losses.
To take a risk by putting something valuable at stake, often in a game or bet.
He decided to gamble his savings on a risky investment.
Past: gambled
Past Participle: gambled
Gamble → The word 'gamble' originates from the Middle English 'gambolen', which is derived from the Old French 'gambe' (meaning leg). The term originally referred to the act of playing games of chance, often involving the use of one's legs in the act of playing or moving about in games.
Think of the word 'gamble' as relating to 'legs' ('gambe') in the context of playing games, which helps you remember that to gamble involves taking risks in games of chance.