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Sweepstake Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽŸ๏ธ
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sweepstake

[หˆswiหpsteษชk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

contest game

A sweepstake is a type of contest in which participants enter for a chance to win prizes, usually by purchasing a ticket or completing some form of entry requirement. The winners are typically chosen randomly from all entries. Sweepstake prizes can range from small items to large sums of money or even cars and vacations. They are often used as promotional tools by companies to attract customers and generate interest in their products or services.

Synonyms

competition, lottery, raffle.

Examples of usage

  • She entered the sweepstake for a chance to win a new car.
  • Many companies run annual sweepstakes to promote their brand.
  • He won a cash prize in a local charitable sweepstake.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Legal Framework

  • In many countries, sweepstakes are regulated by law to protect consumers from fraud and to ensure fair play.
  • Some regions require sweepstakes to be free to enter, meaning no purchase is necessary to participate.

Cultural Impact

  • Sweepstakes have become a popular promotional tool for businesses, often used to increase engagement and customer loyalty.
  • Theyโ€™ve inspired numerous television shows and events, highlighting their entertainment value in popular culture.

Psychology

  • The anticipation of winning in a sweepstake can lead to heightened excitement and joy, engaging participants emotionally.
  • Research shows that the possibility of winning can sometimes create more satisfaction than an actual prize.

Technology

  • With the rise of the internet, online sweepstakes have significantly grown, allowing wider participation across different demographics.
  • Social media platforms often host sweepstakes, blending digital engagement with marketing strategies.

Origin of 'sweepstake'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'sweep' with 'stake', originating from games where participants could stake a bet in the hopes of winning.
  • It first appeared in English in the 19th century, evolving from earlier betting games that involved drawing names from a pool.

The term 'sweepstake' originates from the mid-19th century, deriving from the combination of 'sweep' and 'stake'. The word 'sweep' refers to the act of taking everything, while 'stake' relates to the wager or investment made by participants. Historically, sweepstakes were called 'sweepstakes' in the context of horse races, where a portion of the entry fees contributed to a prize pool. This allowed for all the money collected to be 'swept' into the prize fund, thus the winners could take home a significant payout. Over time, the concept expanded beyond horse racing to include various forms of contests and promotions. The early legal frameworks around gambling and competitions also shaped modern sweepstakes, creating structured rules for participation and prize distribution, ensuring fairness and legality.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,817, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.