gambit
UK: ˈɡæm.bɪt | US: ˈɡæm.bɪt
n. 1. A strategic move, typically involving a sacrifice, to gain an advantage.
n. 2. An opening remark or maneuver intended to secure a benefit.
n. 3. (Chess) An opening move where a pawn or piece is sacrificed to gain positional advantage.
gambit = gamb<leg> + it<noun suffix>
- gamb <leg>: From Italian "gamba" (leg), via Old French "gambet" (a tripping maneuver in wrestling).
- it <noun suffix>: A nominalizing suffix in English, often indicating an action or result.
Etymology Origin:
The word "gambit" originated in chess terminology, borrowed from Italian "gambetto" (a tripping tactic), derived from "gamba" (leg). The metaphor of "tripping" evolved into the strategic sense of sacrificing a piece to gain advantage. Later, it broadened to general contexts for any calculated opening move.
His opening gambit in the debate was to question the opponent’s credibility.
The CEO’s bold gambit to acquire the rival company paid off.
In chess, the Queen’s Gambit is a classic opening strategy.
She used humor as a conversational gambit to break the ice.
The politician’s gambit to resign shocked everyone but secured public sympathy.