tote

¹

[toht]

verb (used with object)

toted, toting 

1. to carry, as on one's back or in one's arms.

   to tote a bundle.

2. to carry on one's person.

   to tote a gun.

3. to transport or convey, as on a vehicle or boat.

noun

1. the act or course of toting.

2. something that is toted.

3. tote bag.

tote

²

[toht]

verb (used with object)

toted, toting 

1. Informal.,  to add up; total.

tote

³

[toht]

noun

Informal.

1. a totalizator.

tote

¹

/ təʊt /

verb

1. (tr) to carry, convey, or drag

noun

1. the act of or an instance of toting

2. something toted

Tote

²

/ təʊt /

noun

1. (sometimes not capital) short for totalizator totalizator

Other Word Forms

• totable adjective
• toteable adjective
• toter noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of tote¹

An Americanism dating back to 1670–80; origin uncertain

Origin of tote²

First recorded in 1885–90; probably verb use of tote, shortening of total

Origin of tote³

First recorded in 1890–95; by shortening

Word History and Origins

Origin of tote¹

C17: of obscure origin

Example Sentences

And at a recent pop-up event for heritage brand Barbour during London Fashion Week, visitors received a free customised checked tote bag and a bouquet of dried flowers from a Scottish florist.

From BBC

With sanitary pads in his pockets and a tote bag full of feminist literature, Aiman Kaiden knew he was ready to compete.

From BBC

In his enthusiasm, he admits he has gone “a little overboard” and created his own line of merchandise: Kitchen Video hats, aprons, tote bags and membership cards.

From Los Angeles Times

A tote board promised a charitable contribution to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America based on the winners’ ability to keep their acceptance speeches short.

From Los Angeles Times

Going way over the 45-second limit, she promised to pay the difference on the tote board.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bag 
• handbag 
• satchel 
• shopping bag 
• tote bag