raffle

¹

[ raf-uhl ]

noun

1. a form of lottery in which a number of persons buy one or more chances to win a prize.

verb (used with object)

, raf·fled, raf·fling.

1. to dispose of by a raffle (often followed by off ):

   to raffle off a watch.

verb (used without object)

, raf·fled, raf·fling.

1. to take part in a raffle.

raffle

²

[ raf-uhl ]

noun

1. rubbish.
2. Nautical. a tangle, as of ropes, canvas, etc.

raffle

/ ˈræfəl /

noun

1. 1. a lottery in which the prizes are goods rather than money
   2. ( as modifier )

      a raffle ticket

verb

1. troften foll byoff to dispose of (goods) in a raffle

Derived Forms

• ˈraffler, noun

Other Words From

• raffler noun
• un·raffled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of raffle¹

1350–1400; Middle English rafle dice game < Middle French, derivative of rafler to snatch; raff

Origin of raffle²

First recorded in 1790–1800; raff + -le

Word History and Origins

Origin of raffle¹

C14 (a dice game): from Old French, of obscure origin

Example Sentences

One popular conspiracy theory held that the houses of respectable Protestant families were being raffled off in Catholic churches, to be invaded by unwashed broods of Irish peasants as soon as home rule was established.

From Salon

There’s always a meal at the end of it and a raffle.

From BBC

It will be raffled this fall — after Kelce drives it around town and to games for a few weeks.

From Los Angeles Times

The TF Nation organisers hold a charity raffle at every convention, with funds once again going towards Mary's Meals.

From BBC

The previous night’s starting pitcher, in full uniform, roams the grounds selling 50-50 raffle tickets.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• betting
• game of chance
• sweepstake