noun / verb
auction
AWK-shun/ˈɔːkʃn/
A sale to the highest bidder, or selling in this way.
The auction ends as the winning bidder keeps a paddle raised for the vase.
Etymology
The underlying image is an increase: each bidder raises the offered price. Latin used this action noun specifically for a sale by increasing bids, giving the modern public-sale meaning.
In context
Players can put rare equipment, top-tier weapons, and valuable items up for auction, with the highest bidder winning
More examples
- Collectors raised their bids throughout the auction.
- The charity auctioned several donated paintings.
- They are auctioning the farm equipment next month.
Forms
auction · auctions · auctioned · auctioning
auctioneer noun — A person who conducts sales by bidding.