Meaning & Definition of word "Raffle"

Raffle

/ˈræfəl/

noun:

  • 1. A type of lottery in which tickets are sold for a chance to win a prize or prizes.
    • Example: The charity organized a raffle to raise funds for the local shelter.
  • 2. A system for distributing prizes through the sale of tickets.
    • Example: They held a raffle at the school fair with lots of donated prizes.

verb:

  • 1. To arrange a raffle; to conduct a drawing to determine the winners of the prizes.
    • Example: The event committee plans to raffle off a bike during the picnic.
  • 2. To prize something via random drawing.
    • Example: We will raffle our last concert tickets to everyone who donated.

Etymology

Etymology for word raffle: from the mid-19th century, perhaps from the phrase 'to ruffle' or related to the French 'raffler.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

raffle ticket:

A ticket purchased or given that enters the buyer into a raffle.

win a raffle:

To be selected as the winner in a raffle.

charity raffle:

A raffle organized to raise funds for charitable purposes.

Related Words

lottery:

A system of drawing lots to allocate prizes or funds.

prize:

A reward given for success in a contest or lottery.

contest:

A competition in which individuals compete for recognition or prizes.

Slang Meanings of raffle

Meaning: To participate in a raffle.

Example Sentence: I’m going to raffle it off at the next fundraiser.

Meaning: To win something unexpectedly.

Example Sentence: I really raffled that vacation!