pari-mutuel machine
Noun: A pari-mutuel machine is a computer or mechanical device used at racetracks and other betting venues. Its primary functions are to register and record bets placed by gamblers and to automatically calculate and distribute the total pool of wagered money among the winning bettors, after deducting a commission for the track or organizer.
This term is used specifically in the context of gambling, particularly horse racing, dog racing, and jai alai. It refers to the system's hardware that facilitates the pari-mutuel betting system, where odds are not fixed but are determined by the total amount bet on each possible outcome.
- The track upgraded all its pari-mutuel machines to handle digital transactions faster.
- Before the race, bettors lined up at the pari-mutuel machines to place their wagers.
- The malfunction of a central pari-mutuel machine delayed the calculation of the final odds and payouts.
- As part of a system: The term often implies the machine is a component of a larger networked system. For example: "The data from every pari-mutuel machine is fed into the central tote board."
- Historical context: Earlier versions were electromechanical devices, while modern versions are fully computerized. One might refer to "the clattering of the old pari-mutuel machines."
- Pari-mutuel (noun/adjective): The betting system itself. (e.g., , ).
- Totalizator or Tote (noun): Another name for the pari-mutuel system or the machine that runs it. A tote machine is synonymous with a pari-mutuel machine.
- Wagering terminal (noun): A more general term for any electronic device used to place bets.
- Tote machine
- Betting computer
- Wagering terminal (general)
This is a highly specific compound noun. Its meaning is entirely tied to the pari-mutuel betting system. It does not refer to slot machines, video poker, or other types of gambling devices where players bet against the house. Its defining characteristic is its role in pooling bets and calculating dynamic payouts for winners.
- computer that registers bets and divides the total amount bet among those who won