Definition

Noun: 1. A calculator that performs simple arithmetic functions: A device, often mechanical or electronic, used for adding numbers together to find a sum. 2. A computer that registers bets and divides the total amount bet among those who won: A system, typically used in gambling or parimutuel betting (like at horse or dog races), that records all bets placed, calculates the total pool, and determines the payout for winners after deducting a commission.

Usage Examples

• As a simple calculator:
  • The clerk used a totaliser to quickly add up the day's sales figures.
  • Before electronic cash registers, many shops relied on a mechanical totaliser for accounting.
• As a betting system:
  • All bets are fed into the central totaliser, which calculates the odds in real-time.
  • The payout for the winning horse is determined by the totaliser after the race is over.

Advanced Usage

• "The tote": In British and Commonwealth English, "the totaliser" is very commonly shortened to "the tote" when referring to the parimutuel betting system.
  • He always places his bets on the tote.
• "Totalisator": This is a less common variant spelling of the word, identical in meaning.

Variants and Related Words

• Totalisator (noun): An alternative spelling for , especially in formal contexts.
• Tote (noun): A common abbreviation for the betting system meaning of .
• Parimutuel machine (noun): A more specific technical term for the betting system.
• Adder (noun): A device or circuit that performs addition, closely related to the first definition.

Synonyms

• For the calculator sense: Adding machine, calculator, summator.
• For the betting system sense: Parimutuel system, tote, betting computer.

Related Phrases

• Totalisator agency board (TAB): An official organization that operates off-course parimutuel betting.
  • He placed his bet at the local TAB office.

Noun

1. a calculator that performs simple arithmetic functions
2. computer that registers bets and divides the total amount bet among those who won