parlay
parlay Lexical Profile
parlay Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To transform or leverage an initial asset, skill, or modest advantage into a much greater success or fortune.
"She managed to parlay her viral baking videos into a bestselling cookbook and a national television show."
To bet an original stake and its winnings on a subsequent race, game, or contest.
"Instead of cashing out his ticket after the first race, he decided to parlay the entire sum on the favorite in the final."
• noun
A cumulative series of bets in which the original stake plus the winnings from each successful wager are automatically staked on the next event.
"He placed a three-team parlay on the weekend football games, hoping for a massive payout."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'parlay' (to turn an initial stake or advantage into something much greater) with 'parley' (a conference or negotiation between opposing sides to discuss terms).
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the early 19th century from French 'paroli', a gambling term from Italian 'paroli' (a doubling of stakes at faro), derived from 'paro' meaning 'equal' or 'pair', ultimately from Latin 'par' (equal).