sweep·​stakes | \ ˈswēp-ˌstāks How to pronounce sweepstakes (audio) \
also sweep-stake\ ˈswēp-​ˌstāk How to pronounce sweep-stake (audio) \

Definition of sweepstakes

1a : a race or contest in which the entire prize may be awarded to the winner specifically : stakes race
2 : any of various lotteries

Examples of sweepstakes in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Patrons chosen through the sweepstakes program will win a specific place in line for the limited-release event. William Thornton | Wthornton@al.com, al, "ABC Board to conduct limited release sweepstakes," 31 July 2019 Shoppers can also sample Aldi-exclusive brand foods and enter a sweepstakes for a chance to win a year’s supply of ALDI produce. William Thornton | Wthornton@al.com, al.com, "Aldi announces opening date for Montgomery location," 15 July 2019 The Big Experience was an ongoing sweepstakes in partnership with Scotts Lawn Care company in which anyone could enter their field or Little League team for the chance to win smaller, weekly prizes such as gift cards and free MLB tickets. Abigail Brone, courant.com, "Naugatuck little league field finalist for MLB revamping," 2 July 2019 To avoid swarms and crowds this year, the promotion has a sweepstakes element to it. Marisa Lascala, Good Housekeeping, "Build-a-Bear Brings Back "Pay-Your-Age Day" for 2019: Here's How to Score the Amazing Deal," 13 June 2019 Also in the mix are an untold number of sweepstakes machines, devices similar to video slot and poker machines that have been proliferating in Chicago. Jason Grotto, ProPublica, "Illinois Is Poised to Become the Gambling Capital of the Midwest," 10 June 2019 Prizeo, a sweepstakes-for-good platform, is running a campaign for one lucky fan and a guest to meet John Mayer and take home his guitar. Rania Aniftos, Billboard, "Fans Can Now Enter a Sweepstakes to Meet John Mayer," 4 June 2019 Diners can enter a sweepstakes for a fishing trip off Florida’s Gulf Coast with executive chef Ray Comiskey. Samantha Nelson, chicagotribune.com, "23 Father's Day specials and all-you-can-eat feasts around Chicagoland," 7 June 2019 Shoppers can also sample Aldi-brand foods and enter a sweepstakes for a chance to win a year’s supply of produce. San Diego Union-Tribune, "Aldi opens second San Diego store in Mira Mesa," 6 June 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'sweepstakes.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of sweepstakes

1774, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

History and Etymology for sweepstakes

Middle English swepestake one who wins all the stakes in a game, from swepen to sweep + stake

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More Definitions for sweepstakes

sweepstakes

noun

English Language Learners Definition of sweepstakes

: a race or contest in which the winner receives all the prize money

sweepstakes

noun plural
sweep·​stakes | \ ˈswēp-ˌstāks How to pronounce sweepstakes (audio) \

Kids Definition of sweepstakes

: a contest in which money or prizes are given to winners picked by chance (as by drawing names)
Hint: Sweepstakes can be used as a singular or a plural in writing and speaking.

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