backgammon

American  

[bak-gam-uhn, bak-gam-] / ˈbækˌgæm ən, ˌbækˈgæm- /

noun

1. a game for two persons played on a board having two tables or parts, each marked with 12 points, and with both players having 15 pieces that are moved in accordance with throws of the dice.

2. a victory at this game, especially one resulting in a tripled score.

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verb (used with object)

1. to defeat at backgammon, especially to win a triple score over.

backgammon British  

/ bækˈɡæmən, ˈbækˌɡæmən /

noun

1. a game for two people played on a board with pieces moved according to throws of the dice

2. the most complete form of win in this game

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Etymology

Origin of backgammon

First recorded in 1635–45; back ² + gammon ¹

Explanation

Backgammon is a two-player game in which you move pieces in an attempt to be the first to remove them all from the board. Backgammon is one of the oldest board games in the world. There's an element of luck to the game of backgammon, but strategy is important if you want to play well. Each player takes turns rolling the dice and choosing the best of many options for moving one or two pieces. You can also capture your opponent's pieces to slow him down. The gammon in backgammon comes from the Old English gamen, "fun" or "game," though the game itself comes from ancient Persia.

Example Sentences

Colonists played chess, checkers, dominoes and backgammon, among other diversions.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 21, 2026

Away from football, the pair enjoy playing backgammon and often hang out together at each other's houses.

From BBC • Feb. 19, 2026

We’ll go out onto our balcony, have our coffee and play backgammon.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 25, 2025

Candlelight illuminated rows of backgammon boards atop long tables; Kylie Minogue and Destiny’s Child played in the background.

From New York Times • Mar. 8, 2024

In the afternoons Charles played backgammon with her, and Emma read aloud to her.

From "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith" by Deborah Heiligman