Tombola - English Definition & Meaning

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Definition

Tombola is like a raffle or lottery game, often played at social gatherings or fundraisers. 🎟️ Numbers are drawn randomly, and players mark them off on their cards. The first to complete a line or the whole card wins a prize! It’s a game of chance and anticipation, similar to bingo. Think of it as a low-stakes, fun way to get lucky. πŸ€ Tombola is a social game.

Etymology

The word 'tombola' comes directly from the Neapolitan word 'tummolo,' which referred to the drum-like container from which the numbers were drawn. This term emerged in Naples, Italy, during the 18th century. It quickly spread as the game became popular throughout Italy and beyond. The game shares roots with other lottery-style games found across Europe. Essentially, 'tombola' captures the essence of random chance from its very name.

Related Words

Examples

  • "The church fundraiser will feature a tombola with amazing prizes."
  • "Everyone gathered around, eager to hear the numbers called in the tombola."
  • "She won a gift certificate at the tombola; she was so excited!"
  • "Let's organize a tombola to raise money for the school trip!" 🚌

Anecdote / Story

Imagine the Hawkins Middle School AV Club hosting a tombola at the Snow Ball instead of a Sadie Hawkins dance. Dustin, hyped as always, is calling out the numbers with incredible enthusiasm, but Lucas keeps accidentally yelling 'Bingo!' 🀣 Max rolls her eyes, while Will nervously hopes he doesn't win the grand prize: a year's supply of pudding. Even Eleven gets in on the fun, using her powers (subtly!) to nudge the winning numbers towards her friends. It's chaotic, but a fun and rewarding night for the club.

Encouragement

Tombola is a fun and easy word to add to your vocabulary. Next time you’re at a fair or fundraiser, remember 'tombola' and impress your friends with your knowledge! πŸŽ‰ You can even suggest playing tombola at your next family gathering for some added fun. πŸ‘¨β€πŸ‘©β€πŸ‘§β€πŸ‘¦

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