gambling

noun

gam·​bling ˈgam-b(ə-)liŋ 

: 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

Now, Hubbard helps others by working as a Welsh Women’s gambling coordinator for Adferiad, providing support to individuals struggling with addiction issues. —Erin Clack, PEOPLE, 11 Nov. 2025

Elsewhere, Chalamet and Okonma’s characters try their hand at sports gambling, cleaning up cash in an amateur tournament thanks to Marty’s talents. —Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 11 Nov. 2025

However, for some, gambling is an addiction that can ruin lives and families. —Don Sweeney, Sacbee.com, 11 Nov. 2025

However, for some, gambling is an addiction that can ruin lives and families. —Don Sweeney, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing gambling

• anti-gambling

Rhymes for gambling

• ambling
• scrambling
• shambling