Etymology
From earlier gamel, from Middle English *gamlen, *gamelen, variant of Middle English gamenen, from Old English gæmnian, gamnian, gamenian (to joke; play), related to Old English gamen (joy; mirth; pleasure; entertainment; pastime; sport; game), Eequivalent to game + -le. Compare Old Danish gammel, Middle High German gamel (pleasure; fun).
Noun
gambling (usually uncountable, plural gamblings)
- An activity characterised by a balance between winning and losing that is governed by a mixture of skill and chance, usually with money wagered on the outcome.
Usage notes
This word is also the present participle of the verb "gamble."
Derived terms
- e-gambling
- gambling house
Credits
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