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Bookie: meaning, definitions and examples

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bookie

 

[ˈbʊki ]

Definitions

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'bookie' comes from 'bookmaker', which referred to someone who keeps records or 'books' of bets.
  • The word has been in use since the late 19th century, primarily in the context of horse racing and sports betting.
  • It likely derives from the slang term 'book', which means a financial account or a record of bets.

History

  • In the early 20th century, bookies operated mostly in informal settings like bars and private clubs, emphasizing the clandestine nature of betting.
  • During Prohibition in the United States, illegal bookmaking became more widespread as people sought secret entertainment.
  • The rise of the internet in the late 20th century transformed the role of bookies, leading to online betting platforms.

Legal Aspects

  • In many places, operating as a bookie without a license is illegal, making this area controversial and heavily regulated.
  • The legality of betting varies greatly around the world; some countries have legalized it while others maintain strict prohibitions.
  • Modern regulations often involve oversight bodies that ensure fairness and protect bettors.

Pop Culture

  • Bookies often appear in movies and TV shows, depicted as shady characters who deal with high-stakes gambling.
  • Popular media like the TV show 'The Sopranos' feature bookies as part of the storyline, showcasing the underground nature of gambling.
  • In literature, characters often turn to bookies when involved in gambling plots, highlighting their role in society.

Social Implications

  • Engaging with bookies can lead to significant financial risks for individuals, often resulting in gambling addiction issues.
  • Societies at large may face moral and legal dilemmas surrounding gambling, as it can affect community welfare negatively.
  • Bookies can impact local economies, especially in sports-rich regions, by either stimulating local businesses or fostering gambling addictions.

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

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.