Definition of martingale

competent Definition: (adjective) having the skill and knowledge needed for a particular task; capable Petersons.com

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< martinet

martini >

mar·tin·gale    (märtn-gl) KEY   also mar·tin·gal   (-gl) KEY  

NOUN:

1. The strap of a horse's harness that connects the girth to the noseband and is designed to prevent the horse from throwing back its head.
2. Nautical Any of several parts of standing rigging strengthening the bowsprit and jib boom against the force of the head stays.
3. Games A method of gambling in which one doubles the stakes after each loss.
4. A loose half belt or strap placed on the back of a garment, such as a coat or jacket.

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ETYMOLOGY:
French, perhaps alteration of Spanish almártaga, almártiga, rein, harness, perhaps of Arabic origin

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