bingo

word

/ˈbɪŋɡoʊ/
BING-goh
/bˈɪŋɡəʊ/
BING-goh

Definition

A game in which players mark numbers on cards as they are called and win by completing a pattern. It is also said when someone finds the right answer or when something happens exactly as expected.

Usage & Nuances

As a noun, it usually means the number game. As an exclamation, 'Bingo!' is informal and means 'That's exactly it' or 'I got it.' It is common when solving a problem, guessing correctly, or noticing a perfect match.

Example Sentences

My grandma plays bingo every Friday night.

basic

Bingo is easy to learn.

basic

I looked at the last number and shouted, "Bingo!"

basic

We tried a few passwords, and then bingo — the laptop opened.

natural

You said the train would be late, and bingo, it was twenty minutes behind.

natural

I couldn't remember her name at first, but then bingo, it came back to me.

natural