tote

1 of 4

verb (1)

toted; toting

transitive verb

1
: to carry by hand : bear on the person : lug, pack
2
toter noun

tote

2 of 4

noun (1)

1
2

tote

3 of 4

verb (2)

toted; toting

transitive verb

: add, total
usually used with up
toted up his accomplishmentsG. P. Morrill

tote

4 of 4

noun (2)

Examples of tote in a Sentence

Verb (1) toted his dog from the muddy backyard to the bathtub for a thorough washing
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Verb
The aluminum design feels sturdy enough to tote anywhere; the touch screen is convenient; and the white keyboard backlighting is effective in low light. PC Magazine, 25 Mar. 2025 The avalanche of attention started a few weeks ago when a video of Khan toting a boom box and rapping along with the players on their way to the court picked up serious steam. Sam Brock, NBC News, 23 Mar. 2025
Noun
For shorter trips, upgrade your duffel with this smart-looking overnight tote made out of caramel-hued leather. Talia Ergas, Travel + Leisure, 29 Mar. 2025 Key to My Heart Embossed Manhattan Mini Tote $248 $148 at Amazon This adorable mini tote is just big enough to fit your phone, a slim wallet, and a few small essentials like your go-to lipstick or favorite sunglasses. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 28 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tote

Word History

Etymology

Verb (1)

probably from an English-based creole; akin to Gullah & Krio tot to carry, of Bantu origin; akin to Kikongo -tota to pick up, Kimbundu -tuta to carry

Verb (2)

English dialect tote, noun, total

Noun (2)

short for totalizator

First Known Use

Verb (1)

1677, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun (1)

circa 1772, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Verb (2)

1888, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tote was in 1677

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tote.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tote. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

tote

verb
ˈtōt
toted; toting
: to carry by hand
toter noun

More from Merriam-Webster on tote

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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