Bet

Definition

Bet is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to an agreement in which people risk money or something of value on the outcome of an event, such as a game or race. As a verb, it means to wager money or valuables on a particular outcome, or to express confidence in something happening.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɛt/
• Respelling: BET

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɛt/
• Respelling: BET

Etymology

The word "bet" likely originated in the early 16th century, possibly as a variant of the word "abet," meaning to encourage or support. It became associated with gambling in English, referring to an agreement to risk something of value on an uncertain outcome.

Derivatives

• Better (noun, informal)
• Betting (noun)
• Bettable (adjective, rare)
• Rebet (verb)
• Betting slip (noun)

Synonyms

• Wager
• Stake
• Gamble

Antonyms

• Certainty
• Surety
• Assurance

Usage

The term "bet" is commonly used in contexts involving risk, wagering, or expressing confidence in an outcome. For example, "He placed a bet on the winning team," or "I bet it will rain tomorrow."

Related Terms

• Wager: Another term for a bet or stake in an uncertain outcome.
• Gamble: The act of risking money or valuables on an uncertain event.
• Odds: The probability or likelihood of a specific outcome.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An agreement to risk money or something of value on the outcome of an event: Often made between individuals or through a betting institution.
  • Example: "They made a bet on who would win the race."

Verb

• To risk money or something of value on a particular outcome: Means to place a stake on an uncertain event with the hope of gain.
  • Example: "She bet $50 on the winning horse."
• To express confidence in a future event: Used informally to mean being certain or confident about something.
  • Example: "I bet he'll arrive late again."