/jak"pot'/ , n.
1. the chief prize or the cumulative stakes in a game or contest, as in bingo, a quiz contest, or a slot machine.
2. Poker. a pot that accumulates until a player opens the betting with a pair of predetermined denomination, usually jacks or better.
3. an outstanding reward or success.
4. hit the jackpot , Informal.
a. to achieve a sensational success; have sudden luck: The firm has hit the jackpot with its new line of computers.
b. to win a jackpot.
[ 1880-85, Amer.; of uncert. orig. ]