- 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>
