martingale

noun

mar·​tin·​gale ˈmär-tᵊn-ˌgāl 

-tiŋ-

1

: a device for steadying a horse's head or checking its upward movement that typically consists of a strap fastened to the girth, passing between the forelegs, and bifurcating to end in two rings through which the reins pass

2

a

: a lower stay of rope or chain for the jibboom used to sustain the strain of the forestays and fastened to or rove through the dolphin striker

b

: dolphin striker

3

: any of several systems of betting in which a player increases the stake usually by doubling each time a bet is lost

Illustration of martingale

• martingale 1

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

But it’s a party in back with a low martingale (a sort of strap) that gives it a gathered look. —Marisa Meltzer, New York Times, 11 Jan. 2023

For the test, dogs may wear buckle, slip, or martingale collars with leashes made of fabric webbing or leather, and owners supply a comb or brush. —Iris Katz, baltimoresun.com/maryland/carroll, 20 Mar. 2021

In a matter of seconds, the martingale could deliver dizzying jackpots or, equally as often, ruination. —Frederick Kaufman, The New Yorker, 19 Mar. 2021

Also referred to as a limited- or no-slip collars, a martingale is designed to constrict when a dog pulls on its leash, but never so tightly as to cause harm when properly fitted. —Cindy Cantrell, BostonGlobe.com, 12 Mar. 2021

Word History

Etymology

Middle French

First Known Use

1584, in the meaning defined at sense 1