High roller
Meaning
A high roller is a person who gambles large amounts of money, or more broadly, someone who operates with a high level of risk for significant gain.
Origin
The term "high roller" vividly paints a picture of someone in a casino, throwing dice or placing chips, with stakes so large they command attention. Its origins are firmly rooted in the world of American gambling, emerging in the early 20th century as the burgeoning casino industry began to attract wealthy individuals willing to stake considerable sums on games of chance. The "high" refers directly to the large amounts of money being wagered, while "roller" specifically evokes the action of rolling dice, a quintessential gambling activity. This evocative phrase quickly became the go-to description for these big-spending, risk-taking patrons, soon extending beyond the casino floor to describe anyone operating with significant stakes.
Examples
- The casino manager always made sure to offer complimentary suites to his regular high rollers.
- Known for his audacious business deals, the entrepreneur had earned a reputation as a high roller in the tech industry.