Meaning & Definition of word "Lose"

to

arrow

    Lose

    /luːz/

    verb:

    • 1. to fail to keep or to maintain; to cease to have, either physically or in an abstract sense.
      • Example: If you don't start studying, you might lose your chance to pass the exam.
    • 2. to suffer the loss of someone or something.
      • Example: They were devastated when they lost their family pet.
    • 3. to allow something to escape, especially in a competitive situation.
      • Example: The team worked hard but ended up losing the championship game.
    • 4. to become unable to find something.
      • Example: I always seem to lose my keys when I'm in a hurry.
    • 5. to weaken or diminish (as in vitality, strength, or effectiveness).
      • Example: If you don’t exercise regularly, you may lose muscle tone.

    Etymology

    Middle English: from Old English 'losian', of unknown origin.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    lose track of:

    to forget the time or where you are

    lose one's mind:

    to become crazy or very upset

    lose face:

    to suffer a loss of respect or reputation

    Related Words

    loss:

    the fact or process of losing something or someone

    loser:

    a person or thing that loses

    losing:

    the process of failing to win or gain something

    Slang Meanings of lose

    Meaning: to fail miserably

    Example Sentence: He totally lost at that presentation.

    Meaning: to not be able to keep up or succeed

    Example Sentence: If you don't study, you're gonna lose big time.