gamble Meaning & Definition
What Does Gamble Mean?
As a noun, gamble means A bet or wager. It can also mean A significant risk, undertaken with a potential gain. As a verb, it means To take a risk, with the potential of a positive outcome.
Word Facts for Gamble
| Part of speech | noun, verb |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | /ˈɡæm.bəl/ |
| Syllables | 2 |
| Synonyms | chance, adventure and take a chance |
| Antonyms | eared |
| Plural | gambles |
| Verb forms | gambles, gambling, gambled |
Gamble Definition (Noun)
- A bet or wager.
I had a gamble on the horses last weekend.
- A significant risk, undertaken with a potential gain.
- A risky venture.
The sailors had taken many gambles with the sea and always won.
Gamble as a Verb
- To take a risk, with the potential of a positive outcome.
- To play risky games, especially casino games, for monetary gain.
- To risk (something) for potential gain.
He gambled his reputation on the outcome.
- To interact with equipment at a casino
Synonyms of Gamble
Gamble synonyms and antonyms →Antonyms of Gamble
Gamble in a Sentence
I had a gamble on the horses last weekend.
The sailors had taken many gambles with the sea and always won.
He gambled his reputation on the outcome.
Word Forms & Grammar
gamble (plural gambles)
gamble (third-person singular simple present gambles, present participle gambling, simple past and past participle gambled)
Words That Rhyme With Gamble
Origin of Gamble
From earlier gamel, from Middle English *gamlen, *gamelen, variant of Middle English gamenen, from Old English gæmnian, gamnian, gamenian (“to joke; play”), related to Old English gamen (“joy; mirth; pleasure; entertainment; pastime; sport; game”), equivalent to game + -le. Compare Old Danish gammel, Middle High German gamel (“pleasure; fun”). More at game.
How to Pronounce Gamble
Gamble is pronounced /ˈɡæm.bəl/ and has 2 syllables, with the main stress on the first syllable (ɡæm).
Common Questions About Gamble
Is gamble a noun or a verb?
Gamble is mainly used as a noun, but it can also be used as a verb.
What is another word for gamble?
You can replace gamble with words such as chance, adventure and take a chance. See the full list of gamble synonyms and antonyms.
What is the opposite of gamble?
The opposite of gamble is eared.
What is the plural of gamble?
The plural of gamble is gambles.
What is the past tense of gamble?
The past tense of gamble is gambled. The present participle is gambling.