Designating a gambling game in which the stakes are high; (hence in extended use of any situation or activity) high-risk, dangerous; having the potential for very significant gains or losses.
Origin
1920s.
Definition of high-stakes in US English:
high-stakes
adjective
Designating a gambling game in which the stakes are high; (hence in extended use of any situation or activity) high-risk, dangerous; having the potential for very significant gains or losses.