# across the board

> English word · Prep_phrase

## Definitions
1. Pertaining to all categories or things.
2. Having an equal amount staked on a competitor placing first, second, or third.
3. Of a move or sequence of play, made in response to developments occurring in the game, as opposed to pre-planned or according to theory.

## Etymology
Originated with horse racing, where an "across the board" bet was one which covered first, second and third on the betting board.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/across-the-board