/
ˈmɑːtɪŋgeɪl/
n.
- a strap or set of straps running from the noseband or reins to the girth of a horse, used to prevent the horse from raising its head too high.
- a gambling system that involves a continual doubling of the stakes.
Etymology
C16: from Fr., from Sp. almártaga, from Arab. al-marta‘a ‘the fastening’, influenced by martingale, from Occitan martegal ‘inhabitant of Martigues (in Provence)’.