lottery
UK: ˈlɒtəri | US: ˈlɑːtəri
n. a game of chance in which tickets are sold and prizes are awarded based on random draws
n. a system of allocating something (e.g., resources, opportunities) by random selection
n. (figurative) an event or process perceived as governed by luck
The word "lottery" traces back to the Middle Dutch word loterij, derived from lot (meaning "share" or "fate"), which itself originates from Old Dutch hlot. The concept of drawing lots to determine outcomes dates to ancient practices of divination or fair distribution. The suffix -ery (from Old French -erie) denotes a system or practice, giving "lottery" its modern sense of a structured game of chance. The word’s evolution reflects humanity’s long-standing fascination with randomness and fate.
She won a large sum of money in the national lottery.
The school uses a lottery system to allocate limited parking spaces.
Getting a table at that restaurant feels like winning the lottery.
Critics argue that college admissions shouldn’t be a lottery.
The lottery draw will take place at 8 PM tonight.