bookmaker

noun

book·​mak·​er ˈbu̇k-ˌmā-kər How to pronounce bookmaker (audio)
Synonyms of bookmakernext
1
: a printer, binder, or designer of books
2
: a person who determines odds and receives and pays off bets
bookmaking noun

Examples of bookmaker in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The money that actually stays with a bookmaker typically runs at less than a 10% margin on that headline figure. Boaz Sobrado, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026 In this case, bookmakers view a draw as slightly more likely than a Japanese victory. Jim Barnes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 June 2026 In the first, sophisticated statistical models and expert insight from bookmakers and transfer markets are combined to determine the strengths of all teams and their players. Achim Zeileis, Fortune, 12 June 2026 Boyle Sports is Ireland’s largest independent bookmaker and signed a multi-year sponsorship agreement with West Ham in July 2025. Roshane Thomas, New York Times, 10 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for bookmaker

Word History

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of bookmaker was in the 12th century

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Cite this Entry

“Bookmaker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bookmaker. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

bookmaker

noun
book·​mak·​er ˈbu̇k-ˌmā-kər How to pronounce bookmaker (audio)
: a person who receives and pays off bets

Legal Definition

bookmaker

noun
book·​mak·​er ˈbu̇k-ˌmā-kər How to pronounce bookmaker (audio)
: a person who determines odds and receives and pays off bets

called also bookie

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