jackpot

/ˌdʒækˈpɑt/

/ˈdʒækpɒt/

Other forms: jackpots

A jackpot is a pile of money won during a game such as a poker. It's also any example of good fortune.

Originally, a jackpot was a pile of money in poker that accumulated until someone produced a pair of jacks (or something better). These days, a jackpot is any kind of prize, winnings, or success. If you get a high-paying job, you hit the jackpot. If you married a wonderful person, you hit the jackpot. Sometimes a jackpot is specific to a game, like the money won from a hand of 21, but any good fortune can be considered a jackpot.

Definitions of jackpot

1. noun

   the cumulative amount involved in a game (such as poker)
   synonyms: kitty, pot

   type of:

   bet, stake, stakes, wager

   the money risked on a gamble
2. noun

   any outstanding award
   type of:

   award, prize

   something given for victory or superiority in a contest or competition or for winning a lottery