Wager: meaning, definitions and examples

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wager

[ˈweɪdʒər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

betting

A wager is a bet or agreement between two parties where they agree that the loser will pay the winner a specified amount of money or valuables. Wagers are common in gambling and sports betting.

Synonyms

bet, gamble, stake.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
wager	Typically used in more formal or legal contexts, often related to betting or gambling. It can also refer to any risk taken where the outcome is uncertain. He made a wager on the outcome of the football match. The two companies entered into a wager regarding market performance.
bet	Commonly used in casual conversation and everyday situations related to gambling or placing a prediction on an outcome. It can also be used informally to mean being confidently sure about something. I bet you five dollars that it will rain tomorrow. You can bet he will be late to the meeting again.
stake	Frequently used in both gambling and investment contexts to describe the amount of money or resources risked. It can also refer to a personal interest or involvement in an outcome. She staked a large amount of money on the horse race. They have a significant stake in the success of this project.
gamble	Used when discussing the act of risking money or something valuable on an uncertain outcome, often with a negative connotation of potential loss. It can also mean taking risky actions or decisions in general. He decided to gamble his savings on the stock market. It's a huge gamble to invest in a startup.

Examples of usage

I made a wager with my friend on the outcome of the football game.
The two gamblers placed a high-stakes wager on the roulette table.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

betting

To wager means to place a bet or make an agreement to pay someone if a particular outcome occurs. It is often used in the context of gambling or predicting the result of an event.

Synonyms

bet, gamble, risk.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
wager	Typically used in formal or written contexts, often related to placing a bet on a specific outcome. He placed a wager on the horse race. She made a substantial wager on the outcome of the election.
bet	Common in casual and informal speech, referring to predicting and staking money on an outcome. I bet you can't finish that pizza. She bet $50 on the football game.
gamble	Used when referring to taking risky actions or engaging in games of chance, often with a focus on the risk involved. It can have a negative connotation. He gambled away his savings in Las Vegas. Deciding to quit his job without another offer was a huge gamble.
risk	Generally used to discuss actions or situations that involve potential loss or danger, not limited to betting or gambling. Investing in stocks always carries a risk. She took a risk by starting her own business.

Examples of usage

I decided to wager $50 on the horse race.
She wagered that the stock prices would rise by the end of the week.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'wager' comes from the Old French word 'aguer', meaning 'to pledge' or 'to promise'.
It has roots in the Proto-Germanic word '*wēganą', meaning 'to contend or to strive'.
In Middle English, the term was used similarly to refer to a pledge or bet regarding uncertain events.

Games and Gambling

Wagers can be made on numerous activities, including sports, card games, or even reality TV outcomes.
One of the oldest known forms of wagering dates back to ancient Rome, where citizens bet on gladiatorial contests.
Online betting has revolutionized the gambling world, allowing people to place wagers from anywhere in the world.

Psychology

Wagering is often tied to our understanding of risk and reward, influencing decision-making and behavioral economics.
People are more likely to take risks when they believe the potential reward outweighs the potential loss.
The concept of a 'wagering mindset' can affect how people approach other life decisions, fostering a culture of risk-taking.

Ethics and Legality

Wagering laws vary significantly around the world, reflecting cultural attitudes towards gambling and risk.
In some cultures, placing a wager is seen as irresponsible, while in others, it’s a social activity and a form of entertainment.
Regulated spaces for betting aim to prevent problem gambling and promote responsible wagering behavior.

Pop Culture

Wagering features prominently in films and literature, often symbolizing chance and the unpredictability of life.
Popular TV shows like 'High Stakes Poker' highlight the tension and thrill associated with wagers.
Wagering on sports events has given rise to popular phrases like 'The odds are in your favor', which permeate mainstream media.

Translations

Translations of the word "wager" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aposta

🇮🇳 दांव

🇩🇪 Wette

🇮🇩 taruhan

🇺🇦 ставка

🇵🇱 zakład

🇯🇵 賭け

🇫🇷 pari

🇪🇸 apuesta

🇹🇷 bahis

🇰🇷 내기

🇸🇦 رهان

🇨🇿 sázka

🇸🇰 stávka

🇨🇳 赌注

🇸🇮 stave

🇮🇸 veðmál

🇰🇿 бәс

🇬🇪 პარასი

🇦🇿 mərc

🇲🇽 apuesta

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,810, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
16807 pulverized
16808 cladding
16809 extras
16810 wager
16811 adipose
16812 abusing
16813 apologized
...