rouletteA casino game mentioned repeatedly in the book.
Definitions:
A gambling game in which a ball is dropped onto a revolving wheel with numbered compartments, the players betting on the number at which the ball will stop."He put all his money on black at the roulette."
debtorA person who owes money, a recurring theme in the book.
Definitions:
A person who is in debt or under a financial obligation to another."After his gambling loss, Alexei became a debtor to the casino."
obsessionA state of mind in which someone think's about something constantly or frequently especially in a way that is not normal, usually having to do with the main character's gambling.
Definitions:
The state of being obsessed with someone or something."Alexei's obsession with gambling led him into the abyss of debt."
An idea or thought that continually preoccupies or intrudes on a person's mind."His obsession with winning at the casino was causing him stress."
compulsiveAn adjective describing behavior that is difficult to stop or control.
Definitions:
Resulting from or relating to an irresistible urge, especially one that is against one's conscious wishes."Alexei's compulsive gambling was damaging his personal relationships."
recklessThis word often describes the main character's behavior towards gambling.
Definitions:
Heedless of danger or the consequences of one's actions; rash or impetuous."His reckless behavior at the gambling table caused him huge losses."
manipulateTo influence or control someone to your advantage, often without that person knowing it. Used in the context of interpersonal relationships in the book.
Definitions:
Control or influence (a person or situation) cleverly, unfairly, or unscrupulously."She could manipulate the situation to her advantage."