bookie

[book-ee]

noun

1. bookmaker.

bookie

/ ˈbʊkɪ /

noun

1. informal,  short for bookmaker

Word History and Origins

Origin of bookie¹

First recorded in 1880–85; book(maker) + -ie

Example Sentences

"I tried everything - apps, local bookies, international platforms. I was hooked," he says.

From BBC

With the Proteas recommencing their first innings on the fifth day Cronje - prompted by a bookie named Marlon Aronstam - contrived an unprecedented innings forfeiture for both sides to ensure a result.

From BBC

The bookies certainly think so - and they are not alone.

From BBC

Of course, Itoje and his players will discount all of the talk of bookies odds and Lions invincibility.

From BBC

Brown has suggested raising around £3bn by doubling taxes on online casinos and bookies.

From BBC

Related Words

• bettor 
• bookmaker 

When To Use

What does bookie mean?

A bookie is a person whose business is accepting other people’s gambling bets, such as on sporting events. It can also refer to a company that does this.Bookie is the common, informal name for a bookmaker. The word book in bookmaker refers to a record of bets.The word bookie is associated with illegal betting operations, especially those run by organized crime groups. However, being a bookie can be done legally. Still, as modern sports betting becomes more widespread, sophisticated, and run by large businesses, the image of a bookie as a shady person writing down bets by hand in a book is likely on the decline.Example: I got a hot tip on a horse—I better call my bookie!