Wager

/ˈweɪdʒər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A risk or stake placed on the outcome of an event, typically in gambling.
He made a wager on the winning horse in the race.
An arrangement in which something is risked or put on the line for the chance to win something greater.
Their wager was a dinner at the finest restaurant in town.
verb
To bet or stake something on the outcome of an event.
She decided to wager $50 on the basketball game.
To make a statement or claim about something that involves risk or uncertainty.
I wager that it will rain tomorrow.

Etymology

Middle English 'wei' meaning 'to weigh' or 'to consider' plus 'ger' from Old French 'gage', meaning 'pledge'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

lay a wager
to place a bet on something.
wager of sin
A bet made when one risks their values or morals.
wager against
To bet on the opposite outcome of something.

Related Words

bet
An agreement to risk something on the outcome of an event.
gamble
To take risky action in hopes of a desirable outcome.

Slang Meanings

Put money down
I'm going to put money down on that game.
Place a bet
Let's place a bet on the next match.