parlay

American  

[pahr-ley, -lee] / ˈpɑr leɪ, -li /

verb (used with object)

1. to bet or gamble (an original amount and its winnings) on a subsequent race, contest, etc.

2. Informal. to use (one's money, talent, or other assets) to achieve a desired objective, as spectacular wealth or success.

   He parlayed a modest inheritance into a fortune.

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noun

1. a bet of an original sum and the subsequent winnings.

parlay British  

/ ˈpɑːlɪ /

verb

1. Brit equivalent: double up.  to stake (winnings from one bet) on a subsequent wager

2. to exploit (one's talent) to achieve worldly success

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noun

1. a bet in which winnings from one wager are staked on another, or a series of such bets

Usage

What does parlay mean? In gambling, to parlay a bet means to “let it ride”—to wager the original amount and any winnings on a subsequent bet. Parlay can also be used as a noun to refer to such a bet.Sometimes it means something more specific, especially in the context of sports betting: a single wager that depends on the outcome of multiple events, most commonly sports games.Parlay can also be used in a general way meaning to use a resource, such as money or talent, to achieve an outcome, such as wealth or success.Example: I always end up trying to parlay my winnings and then losing everything.

Etymology

Origin of parlay

An Americanism first recorded in 1820–30; alteration of earlier paroli, from French, from Neapolitan Italian, plural of parolo, perhaps derivative of paro “equal,” from Latin pār; pair ¹

Example Sentences

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu for his part has managed to parlay diplomatic criticism into something palatable for both sides: military cooperation.

From Barron's • Feb. 22, 2026

Now he wonders if he should parlay the experience into a side gig: “I’m taking a look at hosting my own reverse-recruiting service,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 9, 2026

Mike LaFleur, the Rams’ offensive coordinator for the last three seasons, is the latest to parlay his time with McVay into an NFL head coaching opportunity.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 1, 2026

These include a recently announced “combo” feature that allows users to combine sports wagers — similar to a parlay — and a live-sports contract hub.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 20, 2025

Surely they will parlay awhile, and give us time to get out of the way.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis