Street
vig
What does vig mean?
The vig (short for vigorish) is the interest a loan shark charges or the percentage a bookmaker takes on bets. Failure to pay the vig invites violence.
"The vig alone was more than he made in a week at the docks."
Origin
American, from Yiddish/Russian 'vyigrysh' (winnings/gain).
Frequently asked questions
What does 'vig' mean?
The vig, short for vigorish, is the interest a loan shark charges or the cut a bookmaker takes on bets.
What happens if you don't pay the vig?
With a loan shark, failing to pay the vig invites threats and violence, since these are illegal debts collected outside the law.
Where does the word come from?
It comes to American slang from the Yiddish and Russian 'vyigrysh,' meaning winnings or gain. 'Vig' is a shortened form of 'vigorish.'
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