Meanings
From roulette, a game of chance involving a revolving wheel. The first description is apparently in "The Fatalist," an 1840 short story by Russian writer Mikhail Lermontov.
How to pronounce "Russian roulette":
AU
A deadly game in which a person loads a single bullet in the cylinder of a revolver, spins the cylinder so that the bullet's location is unknown, points the muzzle at his/her head, and pulls the trigger. In its most lethal form, played by multiple participants each of whom takes a turn until the weapon discharges.
Any activity, especially a needless one, that carries a high risk of death or disaster.
Example Sentences
1
Playing Russian roulette with your life is never a good idea.
2
He was gambling with his future like playing Russian roulette.
3
She felt like she was playing Russian roulette every time she went on a blind date.
4
Asking that question in a job interview is like playing Russian roulette.
5
He treated his financial investments like Russian roulette, taking reckless risks.
