lotto
UK[ˈlɒtəʊ]US[ˈlɑːtoʊ]
n
A game of chance in which people buy tickets with numbers, and prizes are given to those whose numbers are chosen by lot.
Etymology
The word 'lotto' entered English in the 18th century directly from the Italian word 'lotto', which means 'lot' or 'fate'. The Italian term itself derives from a Germanic source, likely the Old High German 'lot', meaning 'portion' or 'share', which is related to the English word 'lot'. This etymological journey reflects the core concept of the game: the distribution of prizes by chance or fate, a notion deeply embedded in the word's history from its origins denoting a portion or share determined by destiny.
Analysis
The word is a loanword borrowed as a single unit from Italian.
Examples
She won a substantial amount of money in the state lotto.
He buys a lotto ticket every week, hoping for a life-changing win.
The proceeds from the national lotto are often used to fund public projects.