jackpot

[jak-pot]

noun

1. the chief prize or the cumulative stakes in a game or contest, as in bingo, a quiz contest, or a slot machine.

2. Poker.,  a pot that accumulates until a player opens the betting with a pair of predetermined denomination, usually jacks or better.

3. an outstanding reward or success.

jackpot

/ ˈdʒækˌpɒt /

noun

1. any large prize, kitty, or accumulated stake that may be won in gambling, such as a pool in poker that accumulates until the betting is opened with a pair of jacks or higher

2. 1. to win a jackpot

   2. informal,  to achieve great success, esp through luck

Word History and Origins

Origin of jackpot¹

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85; of uncertain origin

Word History and Origins

Origin of jackpot¹

C20: probably from _jack ¹ (playing card) + _pot ¹

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. hit the jackpot,

   1. to achieve a sensational success; have sudden luck.

      The firm has hit the jackpot with its new line of computers.

   2. to win a jackpot.

see hit the jackpot.

Example Sentences

However, unlike the civilian version where the contestants keep the jackpot, the celebrities are playing for their chosen charity.

Read more on BBC

It is the third EuroMillions jackpot won in the UK this year of the 10 held so far.

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The January jackpot was claimed 13 days after the winning numbers were revealed, but the winner chose to remain anonymous.

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The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million while the odds of winning a prize overall are 1 in 24.9.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The jackpot, with a scheduled drawing for Wednesday, has an estimated cash value of $589.0 million and is the fifth largest ever.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• prize