Main Entry:

loss

Pronunciation:

\ˈlȯs\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

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

Date:

13th century

1: destruction, ruin2 a: the act of losing possession : deprivation<loss of sight> b: the harm or privation resulting from loss or separation c: an instance of losing3: a person or thing or an amount that is lost: as aplural : 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 price5: decrease in amount, magnitude, or degree6: 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>