lots

UK: lɒts | US: lɑːts

Definition

  1. n. a large number or amount of something

  2. n. (informal) much; a great deal

  3. adv. (informal) very much; to a great extent

Structure

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Etymology

The word "lots" originated in Middle English as the plural of "lot," which derives from Old English hlot, meaning "an object used to determine someone's share" (e.g., by drawing straws). Over time, it evolved to signify "a portion or fate assigned by chance," later broadening to mean "a large quantity" in colloquial usage. The informal adverbial sense ("very much") emerged in the 19th century.

Examples

  1. She has lots of friends at school.

  2. He eats lots of vegetables every day.

  3. I miss you lots when you're away.

  4. There are lots of books on the shelf.

  5. They travel lots for work.