exacta

[ig-zak-tuh]

noun

1. a type of bet, especially on horse races, in which the bettor must select the first- and second-place finishers in exact order.

2. a race in which such bets are made.

Word History and Origins

Origin of exacta¹

First recorded in 1960–65; ellipsis of Spanish quiniela exacta “exact quinella”

Example Sentences

Journalism, winner of the Preakness Stakes and second in the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes, has not finished out of the exacta this year in seven starts.

From Los Angeles Times

The 26-year-old gelding Summer Attraction can frolic with 29-year-old gelding Slamming some 22 years after they served as the exacta one forgotten day at the late Rockingham track in New Hampshire.

From Washington Post

Racing has had the same sorts of wagers forever — win, place, show, exacta, trifecta and the like.

From Seattle Times

Drape: This one completes the Chad Brown exacta.

From New York Times

I suggest a win bet and exactas with #7 Budderlicous and #8 Five Bar Jackpot.

From Los Angeles Times