Main Entry:

jack·pot

Pronunciation:

\ˈjak-ˌpät\

Function:

noun

Date:

1879

1 a (1): a hand or game of draw poker in which a pair of jacks or better is required to open (2): a large pot (as in poker) formed by the accumulation of stakes from previous play b (1): a combination on a slot machine that wins a top prize or all the coins available for paying out (2): the sum so won c: the top prize in a game or contest (as a lottery) that is typically a large fund of money formed by the accumulation of unwon prizes2: an impressive often unexpected success or reward3chiefly West : a tight spot : jam