gambling

noun

gam·​bling ˈgam-b(ə-)liŋ How to pronounce gambling (audio)
: the practice or activity of betting : the practice of risking money or other stakes in a game or bet
illegal gambling
compulsive gambling
Then, within the past 18 months, after the explosion in Internet gambling … and the cable TV debut of the World Poker Tour, the game took off again.Walter Kirn
often used before another noun
a gambling game
gambling regulations
a gambling empire

Examples of gambling in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But all the drinking, gambling, and prostitution was above ground and out in the open. JSTOR Daily, 20 Oct. 2025 However, for some, gambling is an addiction that can ruin lives and families. Simone Jasper, Charlotte Observer, 20 Oct. 2025 Wambsganss and Huffman have traded barbs on the campaign trail, including on issues like school choice and gambling interests’ involvement in the race. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Oct. 2025 Online records show that a federal criminal complaint filed by FBI Special Agent Jacob Sheridan said the agency was investigating a horse racetrack in Wilder over suspicion of gambling at a place known as La Catedral Arena, located at 27410 Peckham Road. Sally Krutzig, Idaho Statesman, 20 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for gambling

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gambling was in 1700

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Cite this Entry

“Gambling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gambling. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

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