Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Winnings Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🏆
Add to dictionary

winnings

[ˈwɪnɪŋz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

financial gain

Winnings refer to the money or prizes that someone has won, especially in a competition or game. It is the amount of money or goods that are obtained through success or luck.

Synonyms

jackpot, prize, reward.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
winnings

Winnings are usually associated with money or valuable items one receives from gambling, lotteries, or betting. It's a term that emphasizes the result of a successful gamble or competition.

  • He spent all his lottery winnings on a new car.
  • Their winnings from the horse race were substantial.
prize

Prize is a general term for an award given in a competition, contest, or lottery. It is not necessarily money and can include trophies, medals, or other items of value. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • He won first prize in the science fair.
  • The company is offering a prize for the best innovation.
reward

Reward is typically used to describe something given in recognition of service, effort, or achievement. It often carries a positive connotation and implies an outcome of hard work or good behavior rather than luck.

  • She received a reward for her honesty in returning the lost wallet.
  • Hard work provides its own rewards.
jackpot

Jackpot refers to a large prize, often a cumulative sum of money, especially in gambling or lotteries. It conveys the idea of hitting the highest possible reward in a game of chance.

  • She hit the jackpot in the casino, winning millions.
  • Everyone dreams of winning the lottery jackpot.

Examples of usage

  • I couldn't believe my winnings when I hit the jackpot at the casino.
  • Her winnings from the competition allowed her to take a luxurious vacation.
  • The champion proudly displayed his trophy and winnings.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The concept of winnings is popularized in game shows like 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?' where contestants answer questions to win large cash prizes.
  • Lottery winnings often feature in movies, showcasing how sudden wealth can change lives, sometimes positively and sometimes negatively.
  • Music often celebrates winnings, as seen in hip-hop and rap genres where artists flaunt their success and prizes.

Psychology

  • Research shows that winning can trigger feelings of happiness and accomplishment, often boosting self-esteem.
  • Studies suggest that the anticipation of prizes can trigger dopamine release in the brain, creating a sense of pleasure and reward.
  • Winning can sometimes lead to unrealistic expectations about future success, which can affect individual motivation and risk-taking behavior.

Economics

  • In gambling contexts, winnings can significantly impact local economies, particularly in areas with casinos or betting industries.
  • Tax regulations often alter the perceived value of winnings, as different jurisdictions have varying laws on tax obligations related to prizes.
  • Understanding odds and potential winnings is crucial in gaming strategies, influencing how players place their bets or choose games.

History

  • Historically, winnings were often shared among a community, particularly in ancient games or contests, fostering social bonds.
  • In ancient Rome, gladiators could win substantial rewards, including money, fame, and even freedom through victorious battles.
  • The tradition of awarding trophies for winnings in sports dates back to ancient Greece with the Olympic Games, symbolizing glory and achievement.

Origin of 'winnings'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'winnings' comes from the Old English 'wendan,' meaning 'to turn' or 'to change.' This reflects the idea of changing fortune when winning.
  • In Middle English, the form was often spelled as 'wynnyng,' linking the word to joy and prize acquisition.
  • The usage of 'winnings' in English dates back to the late 14th century, commonly associated with games of chance.

The word 'winnings' originated from the verb 'win' which comes from the Old English 'winnan', meaning 'to struggle for, work at, strive, fight, conquer'. Over time, 'win' evolved to refer to achieving victory or success, and 'winnings' emerged as a noun to describe the rewards or gains obtained from winning. The concept of winning has been central to human history, from ancient battles to modern-day competitions, and 'winnings' continue to symbolize achievement and success in various contexts.

See also: win, winner, winners, winning, wins.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,886, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.