Lotteries or races (11) Crossword Clue
Answer: SWEEPSTAKES (11 letters)
The answer to the crossword clue "Lotteries or races" with 11 letters is "SWEEPSTAKES ". This term refers to a type of contest, often involving prizes, where winners are chosen by chance, similar to a lottery. In the context of races, a sweepstakes can be a competition where participants compete, and prizes are awarded based on the outcome, much like in a horse race or other sporting events. It conveys the idea of a large-scale or high-stakes event, combining elements of luck and competition.
This one threw me for a second because my brain went straight to "competitions" but that's 12 letters. SWEEPSTAKES is what you want here - it's one of those words that covers both gambling-type draws (lotteries) and horse racing events.
Why SWEEPSTAKES fits:
- 11 letters
- Can mean a lottery where winners are drawn randomly
- Also refers to horse races (like the Irish Sweepstakes)
- The plural form is the same as singular, which crosswords love
Understanding the dual meaning: Here's the thing - sweepstakes is kinda old-fashioned but it perfectly bridges these two concepts:
- As a lottery: Those prize draws where you enter to win cars, vacations, whatever. Publishers Clearing House, that whole deal.
- As races: Originally came from horse racing where everyone "sweeps" up the stakes
Actually, I think the racing connection is why the word even exists. Everyone throws money in a pot, winner takes all - sweeps the stakes. Makes sense when you think about it.
Other 11-letter words I considered:
- GAMBLINGDEN - nope, doesn't fit the clue
- COMPETITIVE - close but no
- Honestly can't think of another 11-letter word that covers both
Where you'd encounter sweepstakes:
- Those annoying "You've won!" emails (you haven't)
- Legitimate promotional contests
- The Kentucky Derby has sweepstakes
- Office pools for big races (technically illegal but whatever)
Random fact: The Irish Hospitals' Sweepstake was huge back in the day - ran from like 1930 to 1987. My grandmother apparently used to buy tickets. It was technically illegal in the US but people did it anyway through the mail.
Crossword tip: When a clue gives you two different things with "or," look for a word that encompasses both. Not a word that means one OR the other, but one that can mean BOTH. That's your crossword setter being clever.
Pretty confident it's SWEEPSTAKES. The 11 letters are specific enough, and I can't think of anything else that covers both lotteries and races in one word.
