online vocabulary.com

Parlay - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Parlay means to use one’s resources, skills, or successes to achieve greater gains, often in betting or business. It can also refer to converting an initial advantage into a larger opportunity.

parlay

/ˈpɑːrleɪ/ /ˈpɑːleɪ/

Definition:

To bet winnings from one wager on a subsequent one, or to exploit an advantage for greater gain.

Synonyms:

bet, gamble, wager, stake, risk

Part of Speech:

verb, noun

Antonyms:

forfeit, lose

Common Collocations:

parlay a bet, parlay success, parlay winnings, parlay an opportunity

Derivatives:

parlaying, parlayed

Usage Tips:

Use "parlay" to describe turning initial gains into larger successes, often in betting or business contexts.

Common Phrases:

parlay into success, parlay a win, make a parlay bet

Etymology:

From French "paroli," meaning to double a bet in card games; entered English via Italian "parlare" (to speak).

Examples:

  • 1. He hopes to parlay his early wins into a championship victory.
  • 2. She managed to parlay her small investment into a thriving business.
  • 3. They decided to parlay their earnings from the first race onto the next one.
  • 4. Can you parlay this opportunity into a long-term career?

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS