What does tombola mean?
A tombola is a chance-based lottery or raffle in which participants buy numbered tickets or cards and winners are selected by a random draw. In British English it is often simply a raffle, while in North American usage the word can also denote a bingo-like game in which folded numbered cards are checked against numbers called or drawn. Tombolas have traditionally been used at fairs, in churches, and in charitable or Christmas fundraising events, often offering small prizes such as toys. The word entered English from Italian, where tombola refers to a number-matching lottery. Its associations are practical and communal rather than glamorous: it describes a simple, easily organized drawing, not an investment or a casino game. Knowing the word is useful in travel descriptions and event listings, where British and American usage may appear to describe slightly different formats.
nounA game of chance in which numbered tickets or cards are sold and selected at random, with prizes awarded to the holders of winning tickets. In British English, it is also commonly used as a synonym for a raffle.
- A raffle or lottery in which participants buy numbered tickets or cards and winning selections are made by chance.
- A bingo-like game in which numbers are called or drawn and players mark them on cards, with a prize for completing the required pattern.
"The village hall is holding a tombola to raise money for the new playground."
"Tickets for the charity tombola are available at the entrance."
"We played several rounds of tombola before the evening ended."
The usual plural is “tombolas.”
"The charity is holding several tombolas during the festival."
The same game may be called a raffle in Britain and a bingo-like tombola in America—the distinction often comes down to the format rather than the activity.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does tombola come from?
English borrowed tombola from Italian tombola, a name for a lottery or number-matching game. The Italian word is commonly derived from tombo or tombolo, meaning “mound,” ultimately from Latin tumulus; related forms include Italian tumulo and Spanish týmulo or túmulo.
How tombola is actually used
Most familiar in British English as a synonym for a fundraising or prize raffle; in North American usage it more often refers to a bingo-like game. It is neutral, everyday vocabulary commonly associated with community events and small prizes.
Easily confused with tombola
Tambola is an alternative spelling, especially associated with British usage; it does not represent a separate meaning.