best bet

noun

: safest or most reliable course of action : surest means to a desired end : most advantageous approach : most satisfactory choice
the pilot's best bet was to make an emergency landing
the best bet for stabilizing the national economy

Word History

First Known Use

1906, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of best bet was in 1906

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near best bet

Cite this Entry

“Best bet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/best%20bet. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!