Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Lottery Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽฐ
Add to dictionary

lottery

[หˆlษ’tษ™ri ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

winning numbers

A game of chance in which participants purchase tickets with numbers on them. Winners are selected by drawing random numbers, and prizes are awarded to those whose numbers match the selected ones.

Synonyms

drawing, raffle, sweepstakes.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
lottery

Used when speaking about a system where people buy tickets for a chance to win a prize, usually money. It is typically run by governments or organizations and is associated with the idea of chance and gambling.

  • She bought a lottery ticket in hopes of winning the jackpot.
  • The state lottery funds many public projects.
raffle

Commonly used to describe a fundraising event where people buy tickets for a chance to win various prizes. This term often carries a community or charitable aspect.

  • We are holding a raffle to raise money for the school.
  • She won a bicycle in the raffle.
sweepstakes

Used to describe a promotion or competition where participants enter for a chance to win prizes, typically used by businesses for marketing purposes. Often involves no purchase necessary to enter.

  • She entered the sweepstakes to win a new car.
  • Many companies use sweepstakes to attract customers.
drawing

Refers to an event where winners are selected from a pool of entries, often used in contexts such as contests, giveaways, or fundraisers. This term suggests a neutral, fair selection process.

  • The drawing for the theater tickets will be held on Friday.
  • There will be a prize drawing at the end of the event.

Examples of usage

  • The lottery jackpot reached $100 million this week.
  • She won the lottery and became an overnight millionaire.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'lottery'

The concept of lotteries dates back to ancient times, with evidence of them being used in China, Rome, and Egypt. The first recorded official lottery was held in 1446 in Bruges, Belgium. Lotteries have been used throughout history to raise funds for various public projects, such as roads, bridges, and schools.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,468, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.