morning line

American  

noun

1. a list of entries for a horse race with the probable betting odds as estimated by a bookmaker or track handicapper, usually issued the morning of the race, before wagering begins.

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Etymology

Origin of morning line

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

There are five chances this year, though all five are at least 15-1 on the morning line.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 29, 2026

The top five choices on the official morning line all trained in Florida, though some, including Further Ado, made their final starts elsewhere.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 29, 2026

So, it was a strange feeling to be around Barn 35 at Churchill Downs where Journalism, the 3-1 morning line favorite, was biding his time in preparation for Saturday’s 151st Run for the Roses.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2025

Citizen Bull won the Robert Lewis Stakes on Feb. 1 and is the 9-5 second choice on the morning line behind Journalism at 6-5.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2025

"Did you call for the morning line check on the tracks yet?"

From Direct Wire by Garson, Clee