tote
tote Lexical Profile
tote Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A large, strong bag, typically with two handles, used for carrying everyday items.
"She packed her laptop and notebooks into a canvas tote before heading to the cafe."
British A system of pool betting on horse races, or the organization that manages it (short for totalizator).
"He placed a ten-pound wager on the tote just before the final race began."
• verb
To carry, convey, or drag (something heavy, substantial, or cumbersome).
"We spent the entire afternoon toting heavy boxes of old books up to the attic."
To carry or possess on one's person (especially a weapon).
"The detectives suspected he was toting a concealed firearm inside his jacket."
• Rhymes for tote
Word Origin & Etymology
First recorded in the late 17th century in the Southern United States, meaning 'to carry'. It is likely of West African origin, comparing with Kikongo 'tota' (to pick up) or Swahili 'tuta' (to pile up, carry). The noun sense of 'a bag for carrying things' emerged in the early 20th century.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.