Bookmakers are individuals or firms that facilitate sports betting by setting odds on the outcome of a sporting event. Synonyms for bookmakers include bookies, turf accountants, betting specialists, sportsbooks, and wagering authorities. Bookies are typically those that operate illegally outside of regulated sports betting markets, while turf accountants are the legal equivalent that operates within regulated betting regimes. Betting specialists often provide advice and expert opinion to bettors, while sportsbooks are business entities that offer the chance to place bets on various sports events. Finally, wagering authorities are usually government entities that regulate and oversee betting activities to ensure transparency and fairness for all stakeholders.