total
UK: ˈtəʊtl | US: ˈtoʊtl
adj. complete in amount or extent
adj. absolute; unqualified
n. the whole quantity
vt. to add up; to amount to
The word "total" originates from the Latin tōtus, meaning "whole" or "entire." It entered Middle English via Old French total, retaining its core sense of completeness. The morpheme tot preserves the Latin root's meaning, while -al is a common suffix forming adjectives (e.g., "natural," "vital"). The word's evolution reflects a straightforward transition from Latin to modern usage, emphasizing the idea of an undivided sum.
The total cost of the project exceeded the budget.
She gave her total attention to the lecture.
The votes totaled over a million.
The report provides a total breakdown of expenses.
His failure was a total surprise to everyone.