# bookmaker

/ˈbʊkmeɪkɝ/ (US) · /bˈʊkmeɪkɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bookmaker
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

a person whose job is to take bets on races and games and pay the winners. You see bookmakers at horse races and in betting shops.

For teachers: a person or company that accepts wagers on sporting and other events, setting odds and paying winnings. Operates under licence in betting shops, at racetracks, and through online platforms.

## Examples

- The bookmaker takes bets on the football match.
- She places a small bet with the local bookmaker before every Grand National.
- The bookmaker shortened the odds on the outsider after a flood of late money suggested insider confidence in its chances.

## Synonyms

bookie

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.