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lottery

n.
US //ˈɫɑtɝi// UK //lˈɒtəɹi// lot·tery
  1. 1 gambling game (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a game where you buy a ticket with numbers on it, and you win money if your numbers are chosen by luck.

    a scheme for the distribution of prizes by lot or chance, typically involving the purchase of numbered tickets.

    Example

    He buys a ticket for the national lottery every Saturday, hoping to win the jackpot.

    Example

    The state-run lottery generates significant revenue for public works, though critics argue it functions as a regressive tax on lower-income households.

    Usage

    Often used with the verbs 'play', 'win', or 'enter'.
  2. 2 something decided by luck (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a situation where the result depends on luck or chance rather than hard work or skill.

    a process or event whose outcome is governed by chance or unpredictable factors.

    Example

    Finding a good parking space in this city is a complete lottery.

    Example

    Securing a place at the prestigious academy has become something of a lottery, as the number of qualified applicants far exceeds the available spots.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the phrase 'a bit of a lottery' or 'the postcode lottery'.
Origin

Borrowed from Italian lotteria, from the same root as Old English hlot (cognate with English lot). Compare French loterie (from Middle Dutch loterie). By surface analysis, lot + -ery.

Idioms3 entries

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