gamble

Meanings

1. A bet or wager.
2. A significant risk, undertaken with a potential gain.
3. A risky venture.

1. To take a risk, with the potential of a positive outcome.
2. To play risky games, especially casino games, for monetary gain.
3. To risk (something) for potential gain.
4. To interact with equipment at a casino.

1. A surname from Old Norse.

Etymology

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.