loss

loss

noun \ˈlȯs\

Definition of LOSS

1

: destruction, ruin

2

a : the act of losing possession : deprivation <loss of sight>

b : the harm or privation resulting from loss or separation

c : an instance of losing

3

: a person or thing or an amount that is lost: as

a plural : killed, wounded, or captured soldiers

b : the power diminution of a circuit or circuit element corresponding to conversion of electrical energy into heat by resistance

4

a : failure to gain, win, obtain, or utilize

b : an amount by which the cost of something exceeds its selling price

5

: decrease in amount, magnitude, or degree

6

: the amount of an insured's financial detriment by death or damage that the insurer is liable for

— at a loss

1

: uncertain as to how to proceed <was at a loss to explain the discrepancy>

2

: unable to produce what is needed <at a loss for words>

— for a loss

: into a state of distress <events had thrown him for a loss>

Examples of LOSS

1. The storm caused widespread loss of electricity.
2. The company's losses for the year were higher than expected.
3. A careless error resulted in the loss of the game.
4. The team suffered a 3–2 loss in the last game.
5. The team has an equal number of wins and losses.
6. the party's losses in the recent election

Origin of LOSS

Middle English los, probably back-formation from lost, past participle of losen to lose

First Known Use: 13th century

Related to LOSS

Synonyms

mislaying, misplacement

Antonyms

acquisition, gain

Related Words

deprivation, dispossession, privation; forfeit, forfeiture, penalty; sacrifice; bereavement; absence, lack, need, want

Near Antonyms

control, hands, having, keeping, possession

Rhymes with LOSS

boss, cross, crosse, dross, floss, gloss, joss, moss, sauce, stoss, toss