heads or tails

noun plural but singular in construction

: a simple gambling game in which a coin is tossed and won by the player who successfully calls the side that lands upward compare head or tail

Word History

First Known Use

1675, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of heads or tails was in 1675

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near heads or tails

Cite this Entry

“Heads or tails.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heads%20or%20tails. Accessed 12 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!