Definition of vigorish

< vigor

vigoroso >

vig·o·rish    (vgr-sh) KEY 

NOUN:
Slang

1. 1. A charge taken on bets, as by a bookie or gambling establishment.
   2. The rate or amount of such a charge.
2. Interest, especially excessive interest, paid to a moneylender.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Yiddish slang, from Russian vyigrysh, winnings : vy-, out; see ud- in Indo-European roots + igrat', to play