bet

bet · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To risk money or something of value on the outcome of an event.

  2. 2.

    An agreement to risk money or something of value on an uncertain outcome.

  3. 3.

    To be certain or confident about something.

  4. 4.

    Something that is bet; a stake.

Phrases & expressions

  • you bet — Certainly; definitely.
  • I bet — I'm confident that.
  • bet on — To risk money on; to rely on.
  • all bets are off — The situation has changed so predictions are no longer valid.
  • safe bet — Something very likely to happen.
  • hedge one's bets — To reduce risk by supporting multiple options.

Related words

See also: bets, betting, gamble, wager
Synonyms: gamble, stake, wager

Etymology

Of uncertain origin, possibly from the obsolete noun abet meaning "instigation" or from the phrase "you bet" as a shortening of "you bet you."