Lot

Definition

Lot is a versatile word used as a noun, verb, and adverb. As a noun, it can refer to a large quantity of something, a parcel of land, or a decision made by chance (such as drawing lots). As a verb, it means to divide into portions or to assign by chance. As an adverb, it is used informally to indicate a large extent or degree.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb
• Adverb (informal usage)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /lɑt/
• Respelling: LAHT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /lɒt/
• Respelling: LOT

Etymology

The word "lot" originates from Old English "hlot," meaning "portion, share, or decision by chance," derived from Proto-Germanic "*hlutan," meaning "object used for casting lots." Over time, it evolved to include meanings related to quantity and land parcels.

Derivatives

• Lotting (noun/verb)
• Allot (verb)
• Lottery (noun)
• Lotless (adjective)
• Plot (noun, related to land)

Synonyms

• Quantity
• Parcel
• Portion

Antonyms

• None
• None
• None

Usage

The word "lot" is widely used in everyday language and formal contexts. As a noun, "She bought a lot of groceries" refers to a large quantity, while "The parking lot is full" refers to a designated area of land. As a verb, "The property was lotted and sold" indicates division into parts. Informally, it is used as an adverb, as in "He talks a lot."

Related Terms

• Share: A portion or part of something.
• Parcel: A defined area of land.
• Quantity: The amount or number of something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A large quantity or number: Refers to an extensive amount of something.
  • Example: "There was a lot of work to do."
• A parcel of land: Refers to a specific area of property.
  • Example: "The family purchased a vacant lot for construction."
• A decision made by chance: Refers to an outcome determined randomly, often by drawing lots.
  • Example: "They cast a lot to decide who would go first."

Verb

• To divide into portions: Refers to separating something into parts for distribution.
  • Example: "The land was lotted and sold to various buyers."
• To assign by chance: Refers to distributing or determining by random selection.
  • Example: "The roles were lotted among the participants."

Adverb (informal)

• To a large extent or degree: Refers to doing something in great measure.
  • Example: "I like this movie a lot."