Bookie: meaning, definitions and examples

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bookie

 

[ ˈbʊki ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

betting

A bookmaker, especially one who takes bets illegally or takes bets from a large number of people.

Synonyms

bookie runner, bookmaker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bookie

This term is commonly used in informal contexts, often in casual conversations. It refers to a person who takes bets, particularly on sports games.

  • I placed a bet with my local bookie on the football game.
bookmaker

This is a more formal term and is suitable for official or professional contexts. It refers to an individual or organization that accepts and pays out bets on sporting and other events at agreed-upon odds.

  • The odds offered by the bookmaker seemed quite favorable.
bookie runner

This term is also informal and often refers to a person who works for a bookie, collecting and placing bets on their behalf.

  • The bookie runner came by to collect the stakes this morning.

Examples of usage

  • The bookie was arrested for running an illegal gambling operation.
  • I placed a bet with the bookie on the outcome of the match.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

A person who arranges and accepts bets on behalf of others.

Synonyms

betting agent, betting broker, bookmaker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bookie

Casual or informal situations involving gambling where the term refers to a person who accepts and pays off bets, typically in a less formal setting. Often used in everyday conversation and stories.

  • I placed a small bet on the horse race with my local bookie.
  • The bookie gave me good odds on the football match.
betting agent

More formal or professional situations where the term refers to a licensed individual or organization that facilitates bets, often for larger sums of money or within regulated contexts.

  • I contacted a reputable betting agent to place my stakes on the upcoming tournament.
  • The betting agent provided me with detailed odds and betting options.
betting broker

Professional environments where the term signifies an intermediary who arranges bets on behalf of clients, typically involving higher stakes and more complex transactions.

  • He hired a betting broker to manage his extensive betting portfolio.
  • The betting broker negotiated better odds for his client's wagers.
bookmaker

Both casual and formal situations where the term describes a person or organization that accepts and pays off bets. This term is more neutral and can be used in various contexts, both informal and professional.

  • I always check the bookmaker's odds before placing a bet.
  • The local bookmaker has been in business for over 20 years.

Examples of usage

  • My uncle works as a bookie and handles bets for his friends.
  • The bookie agreed to take my bet on the horse race.

Translations

Translations of the word "bookie" in other languages:

🇵🇹 corretor de apostas

🇮🇳 सट्टेबाज

🇩🇪 Buchmacher

🇮🇩 bandar taruhan

🇺🇦 букмекер

🇵🇱 bukmacher

🇯🇵 ブックメーカー (bukkumēkā)

🇫🇷 parieur

🇪🇸 corredor de apuestas

🇹🇷 bahisçi

🇰🇷 북메이커 (bukmeikeo)

🇸🇦 مراهن

🇨🇿 sázkař

🇸🇰 stávkar

🇨🇳 博彩经纪人 (bǒcǎi jīngjìrén)

🇸🇮 stavničar

🇮🇸 veðmálstjóri

🇰🇿 букмекер

🇬🇪 ბუქმეკერი (buqmēkeri)

🇦🇿 bukmeker

🇲🇽 corredor de apuestas

Etymology

The term 'bookie' is a colloquial and informal abbreviation of 'bookmaker', used to refer to a person who takes bets on various outcomes, especially in the context of gambling and sports betting. The practice of bookmaking dates back centuries, with bookies playing a significant role in facilitating betting activities. Over time, the term has become synonymous with individuals who accept and manage bets, often in a non-legal or informal setting.

See also: book, bookcase, booked, booking, bookish, bookkeeper, bookkeeping, booklet, bookmaker, bookrack, bookrest, books, bookshelf, bookshop, bookstand, bookstore, bookworm, ultrabook.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,618 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.