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To "hedge your bet" is to protect yourself against a possible loss. It was a mark of caution to plant hawthorn around a field, or hedge it. Eventually the name of the barrier came to be used in connection with many kinds of safeguards. As a result, we say that a person who wagers on several horses rather than only one hedges his bet. Many a person manages to "hedge" by avoiding direct promises and unqualified commitments." To "hedge your bet" is to protect yourself against a possible loss. It was a mark of caution to plant hawthorn around a field, or hedge it. Eventually the name of the barrier came to be used in connection with many kinds of safeguards. As a result, we say that a person who wagers on several horses rather than only one hedges his bet. Many a person manages to "hedge" by avoiding direct promises and unqualified commitments."

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15y ago
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15y ago

The original meaning of "hedge" was "fence." From this, among other meanings and usages, the word takes on the meaning, as a verb, to fence off, enclose, or protect. So, one who hedges his bets is trying to insure against loss.

According to the Online Etymology Dictionary, the earliest known usage of that phrase was in 1672.

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Q: What is the meaning of the phrase hedge your bet?
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