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Search results for 'stake':

stake1 noun 1 a stick or post, usually with one pointed end, that is knocked into the ground as a support, eg for a young tree or a fence. 2 (the stake) formerly a a post that is set into materials for a bonfire and which a person is tied to before being burned alive as a punishment; b this type of punishment • sentenced to the stake. verb (staked, staking) to support or fasten to the ground with a stake. stake a claim to assert or establish a right or ownership, especially to a piece of land.
ETYMOLOGY: Anglo-Saxon staca.

stake something out 1 to mark the boundary of (a piece of land) with stakes, especially as a way of declaring ownership of it. 2 to keep (a building, etc under surveillance). See also stakeout.

stake2 noun 1 a sum of money risked in betting. 2 an interest, especially a financial one • have a stake in the project's success. 3 (stakes) a a prize, especially in horse-racing, where the horses' owners put up the money that is to be won; b a race of this kind; c a specified area or sphere, especially one where there is pressure to appear to succeed • It all depends on how he fares in the promotion stakes. verb 1 to risk, especially as a bet. 2 to support, especially financially • staked the enterprise to the tune of £100 000. at stake at risk; in danger.
ETYMOLOGY: 16c.