Toted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Pop Culture

• In literature and movies, characters often 'tote' around essential items, symbolizing their values or readiness for adventure.
• The term has been used in popular music, often reflecting themes of travel and companionship.
• In fashion, 'tote bags' have become trendy accessories for carrying daily essentials, blending style and functionality.

Psychology

• The act of toting can invoke feelings of responsibility, as the items we carry often hold significance or represent our identity.
• Studies show that carrying personal items can create a sense of comfort and security during stressful situations.
• Toting a bag that belongs to someone else can create a bond, as it often symbolizes trust between individuals.

History

• Tote bags gained popularity in the 1940s and 50s, coinciding with a rise in consumer culture and environmental awareness.
• In the 1960s, tote bags became symbols of social movements, often used to carry pamphlets and materials for activism.
• The trend of using tote bags in grocery shopping emerged as an eco-friendly alternative to plastic bags in the late 20th century.

Literature

• American authors like Zora Neale Hurston have captured the essence of 'tote' in their work, reflecting everyday life and culture.
• In poetry, the notion of carrying emotional 'baggage' can be likened to the physical act of toting, creating a metaphor for internal struggles.
• Children's books often feature characters who tote various treasures, emphasizing themes of exploration and discovery.

Main points about word origin

• 'Toted' comes from the verb 'to tote,' which originated in the late 19th century, rooted in African American Vernacular English.
• The word 'tote' was popularized through Southern American English, illustrating how regional dialects influence language.
• It originally reflected a specific style of carrying objects, emphasizing practicality and utility.

The word 'tote' originated in the 17th century from the verb 'to tote', which means 'to carry'. It is believed that it derives from the African American Vernacular English (AAVE), specifically from the term used in Gullah, a creole language spoken by the African American community in the coastal regions of the southeastern United States. The popularity of the term grew in the 20th century, especially with the rise of casual and practical language use. In contemporary times, 'tote' has become widely associated with tote bags, which are designed for carrying various items conveniently. The evolution of the word reflects a broader trend in language, where colloquial expressions evolve into more formal or mainstream usage, especially in American English.

Ranking #36,609, 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.

• ...
• 36606 technocrat
• 36607 roust
• 36608 squelching
• 36609 toted
• 36610 speakeasy
• 36611 frolicked
• 36612 salivate
• ...