Total

Definition

Total refers to the complete amount or sum of something, encompassing all parts or elements without exclusion.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtoʊ.təl/
• Respelling: TOH-tuhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtəʊ.təl/
• Respelling: TOH-tuhl

Etymology

The word "total" originates from Latin "totalis," meaning "entire" or "whole," which is derived from "totus," meaning "all" or "whole." It entered English in the late Middle Ages via Old French "total."

Derivatives

• Totally (adverb)
• Totality (noun)
• Totalize (verb)
• Totalitarian (adjective, related)
• Subtotal (noun/adjective)

Synonyms

• Entire
• Complete
• Sum

Antonyms

• Partial
• Incomplete
• Fraction

Usage

The word "total" is used as an adjective to indicate completeness, as in "The total cost is $100." As a noun, it refers to the sum or aggregate, as in "The total is 50 points." As a verb, it means to calculate the sum or to destroy completely, as in "She totaled her car in the accident."

Related Terms

• Sum: The result of adding numbers.
• Aggregate: A whole formed by combining several elements.
• Complete: Having all necessary parts or elements.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Comprising the whole; entire: Refers to something complete or without omission.
  • Example: "The project was a total success."
• Absolute; utter: Indicates an extreme or uncompromising degree.
  • Example: "This is a total disaster."

Noun

• The sum of all parts: Refers to the aggregate amount or number.
  • Example: "The total for your order is $45."

Verb

• To calculate the sum: Refers to adding up all parts to reach a complete amount.
  • Example: "Please total the expenses for the week."
• To destroy completely (informal): Refers to damaging something beyond repair.
  • Example: "He totaled his car in the crash."