What does lottery mean?
A lottery is a game in which people buy tickets or choose numbers, and winners are determined by a random drawing. The term may also describe any situation in which success is largely a matter of chance, as in “getting the job was a lottery.” In its primary sense, a lottery combines the hope of a substantial prize with the very small probability of winning. In its figurative sense, it emphasizes the unpredictable and seemingly arbitrary nature of outcomes. The word is commonly associated with public draws offering cash prizes, although lotteries also exist in many smaller social and commercial forms. Its vocabulary includes familiar expressions such as “lottery ticket,” “lottery winner,” “win the lottery,” and “lottery jackpot.” The word is used in British and American English with essentially the same meaning.
nounA game in which tickets or numbers are selected in a random draw, with prizes awarded to entrants whose selections match. By extension, it refers to an outcome or opportunity whose result is determined by chance.
- A game in which tickets or numbers are entered for a random draw and prizes are awarded to matching selections.
- An event, decision, or opportunity whose result depends largely on chance.
"She won a small prize in the national lottery."
"The lottery jackpot was shared by two ticket holders."
"Winning a place on the team was something of a lottery."
The plural is formed by adding -ies to the singular form.
"Lotteries are regulated differently in different jurisdictions."
A lottery is a rare form of organization in which chance, rather than skill, determines who receives the prize.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lottery come from?
The English word comes from Italian lotto, originally meaning a share or portion and later used for a public game in which prizes were distributed by drawing lots. It entered English during the 16th century in connection with public lotteries. The Italian word comes from a Germanic term associated with casting lots, which also underlies English “lot.”
How lottery is actually used
In its figurative sense, the word often suggests that a result depends on chance rather than merit, planning, or ability. It is generally neutral when referring to the game itself, though it can imply gambling or uncertainty in other contexts.
Easily confused with lottery
A lottery typically involves buying a ticket for a numbered draw, whereas a raffle usually awards prizes from entries collected for a particular event.