stake

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[[t]steɪk[/t]]

n. v. staked, stak•ing

1) bui a stick or post pointed at one end for driving into the ground as a boundary mark, part of a fence, support, etc

2) a post to which a person is bound for execution, usu. by burning

3) the stake, the punishment of death by burning

4) bui one of a number of vertical posts fitting into sockets or staples on the edge of the platform of a truck or other vehicle, as to retain the load

5) rel a division of ecclesiastical territory in the Mormon Church, consisting of a number of wards

6) to mark with or as if with stakes (often fol. by off or out)

7) to claim or reserve a share of (land, profit, etc.) as if by marking with stakes (usu. fol. by out or off)

8) bot to support with a stake or stakes, as a plant

9) to tether or secure to a stake, as an animal

10) to fasten with a stake or stakes

11) phv stake out

a) to keep under police surveillance

b) to appoint (a police officer) to maintain watch over a suspect or place

12) idi pull up stakes, to leave one's job, place of residence, etc.; move

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Etymology: bef. 900; (n.) ME; OE staca pin, c. MD, MLG stake II

stake

[[t]steɪk[/t]] n. v. staked, stak•ing

1) something that is wagered in a game or contest

2) a monetary or commercial investment in something, as in hope of gain

3) a personal interest or involvement

4) the funds with which a gambler operates

5) Often, stakes. a prize, reward, etc., in or as if in a contest

6) gam stakes, the cash values assigned in poker to various chips, bets, and raises

7) grubstake

8) to risk (something), as upon the outcome of an uncertain event, venture, etc

9) to furnish with necessities or resources, esp. money

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- at stake

Etymology: 1520–30