Definition

A game or event where people buy tickets for a chance to win money or prizes, with winners chosen by random drawing.

Example

She won a large sum of money in the lottery last week.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about entering the lottery?

I have! It would be amazing to win big money.

Right? I always imagine what I would do if I won the lottery.

Me too! A vacation around the world would be my first choice.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lottery → The word 'lottery' comes from the Middle Dutch 'lotterij', which is derived from 'lot' (meaning fate or chance) and the suffix '-ery' (indicating a process or condition). Thus, 'lottery' refers to a process or condition of drawing lots or determining fate by chance.

Memory Tip

Imagine a game where you are determining your 'fate' ('lot') through a process ('-ery') — that's how a lottery works.

Visually Confused Words