Kaput: meaning, definitions and examples

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kaput

 

[ kəˈpuːt ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

informal usage

Kaput is a term used to describe something that is broken, no longer functioning, or irretrievably damaged. It is often used in a humorous or informal context to indicate that something has come to an end.

Synonyms

broken, damaged, finished, ruined

Examples of usage

  • The old car is kaput and needs to be replaced.
  • After the storm, the power lines are kaput.
  • My laptop is kaput; it won't turn on.
  • The negotiations fell apart, and the deal is kaput.
  • I tried fixing the TV, but it's kaput.

Translations

Translations of the word "kaput" in other languages:

🇵🇹 kaput

🇮🇳 खत्म

🇩🇪 kaputt

🇮🇩 rusak

🇺🇦 зламаний

🇵🇱 zepsuty

🇯🇵 壊れた

🇫🇷 kaput

🇪🇸 roto

🇹🇷 bozuk

🇰🇷 고장난

🇸🇦 تالف

🇨🇿 rozbitý

🇸🇰 rozbitý

🇨🇳 坏了

🇸🇮 pokvarjen

🇮🇸 brotinn

🇰🇿 сынған

🇬🇪 დანგრეული

🇦🇿 sındırılmış

🇲🇽 roto

Etymology

The term 'kaput' originates from the German language, where it literally means 'broken' or 'finished.' It was first adopted into English in the late 19th century, particularly in the context of machinery or technology that is no longer functional. The word likely adopted a playful tone over time, especially in American English, where it became colloquially used to denote something that has permanently ceased to work or has come to an end. Its usage has expanded beyond mechanical contexts to include various situations where something is deemed irreparable or unsuccessful. The incorporation of 'kaput' into everyday vernacular reflects a blend of cultural influence, as it captures a sense of finality and humor in describing failures or breakdowns.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,872, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.