Wager Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ธ
wager
[หweษชdสษr ]
Definitions
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
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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
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.
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bet |
Common in casual and informal speech, referring to predicting and staking money on an outcome.
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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.
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risk |
Generally used to discuss actions or situations that involve potential loss or danger, not limited to betting or gambling.
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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.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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, itโs 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.
Origin of 'wager'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'wager' comes from the Old French word 'aguer', meaning 'to pledge' or 'to promise'.
- It has roots in the Proto-Germanic word '*wฤganฤ ', meaning 'to contend or to strive'.
- In Middle English, the term was used similarly to refer to a pledge or bet regarding uncertain events.
The word 'wager' originated from Middle English 'wag(e)re', which came from Old North French 'wager' meaning 'a pledge, a wager'. The concept of wagering has been around for centuries, with betting on outcomes of events being a common practice in various cultures. It has evolved into the modern form of betting and gambling we see today.
See also: wages.
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.
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- 16807 pulverized
- 16808 cladding
- 16809 extras
- 16810 wager
- 16811 adipose
- 16812 abusing
- 16813 apologized
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