What Is a Sportsbook/Bookmaker? Definition of a Sportsbook

If you’re new to the world of sports betting and quite fancy your chances of betting on your favorite sports, you’ve probably already heard that you’ll need to place your bets with a sportsbook. 

In this quick guide, we explain exactly what a sportsbook is. 

Bookmaker/Sportsbook Explained 

A bookmaker is the same thing as a sportsbook. Sometimes they’re also referred to as a sportsbook, and even a “bookie.” 

They’re basically a legal company that accepts sports bets from bettors on sporting events. They set the odds for a sporting event, and you as the punter/player can come along, pick your bets, set your stake – and place your wager. 

Sportsbooks have existed for over a hundred years. These days, they’re online too (online sportsbooks). There are a huge number of them, and whilst nearly all of them offer markets for all the major sports, leagues, and events, for example as the horse racing, NBA, and Super Bowl respectively, many of them also offer markets for more niche sports.  

Can I Bet At a Sportsbook? 

Yes! 

As long as a sportsbook is legal in your state or country, and you are over the legal age required to wager on sports, you can create an account and start betting at a sportsbook. 

Do Sportsbooks Make A Profit?

Sportsbooks wouldn’t exist if they didn’t make a profit. A sportsbook is a business, and just like any other business, they need to turn a profit in order to keep running. 

Naturally, a sportsbook wouldn’t be able to make consistent profits if the players were always winning. As such, the bookie will always adjust the odds/set the lines in their favor so that they retain what is known as the “house edge.” 

So while sports betting is completely fair, and while everything a bookie does is legal and above board, sportsbooks will always achieve a profit.