Stake

n. 1 sum of money etc. wagered on an event. 2 (often foil. by in) interest or concern, esp. financial. 3 (in pl.) a prizemoney, esp. in a horserace. b such a race. v. 1 wager. 2 US colloq. support, esp. financially. o at stake risked, to be won or lost. [Old English]