odd or even

or odds or evens

noun

1. any of various games of chance in which one bets on an odd or even number, as one in which two players alternately draw from a pile of an odd number of counters any desired number up to a prearranged limit, the object being to have drawn an odd number of counters at the end of the game.

Word History and Origins

Origin of odd or even¹

First recorded in 1625–35

Example Sentences

Since as early as the 19th century, critics have derided people who choose not to eat meat as "odd" or even "half-crazed."

From Salon

The court heard arguments on measures implemented by the Delhi government to tackle the situation, from reducing stubble burning in the neighbouring states of Punjab and Haryana, to a proposal to allow motor vehicles only on alternate days, depending on whether the last number on their licence plates was odd or even.

From BBC

The authors showed 17 participants images of anywhere from zero to nine dots on a screen for half a second, and asked them whether they had seen an odd or even number of items.

From Scientific American

Even so, they were able to correctly choose the odd or even number 70% of the time.

From NewsForKids.net

His body type and physical maturity into college will enable him to fit in either an odd or even front defensive line.

From Seattle Times