gambit
/ˈɡæmbɪt/ · gam·bit
noun
- An opening in chess, in which a minor piece or a pawn is sacrificed to gain an advantage. Her clever gambit gave her an advantage.
- Any ploy or stratagem. Their promise to lower taxes is clearly an election-year gambit.
- A remark intended to open a conversation. She made a witty remark that was a perfect gambit to break the ice.
verb
- To sacrifice (a pawn or minor piece) to gain an advantage. By gambitting his pawn, he was able to put pressure on his opponent's position.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Did you know? The term 'gambit' is often associated with the famous chess player, Paul Morphy, who was known for his aggressive and creative opening moves.