Totaled

The word "totaled" typically describes the complete destruction or irreparable damage of an object, especially a vehicle, rendering it economically unviable to repair. It signifies a loss where the cost of restoration exceeds the object's value. The term often implies a severe event, such as a car accident, fire, or significant structural failure. Beyond physical objects, "totaled" can extend metaphorically to represent the complete loss or destruction of abstract concepts, like a failed project or a ruined relationship, emphasizing absolute devastation. The core meaning centers on encompassing and irreversible ruin.

Totaled meaning with examples

• After the severe collision, the insurance adjuster declared the car totaled. The extensive damage to the engine, chassis, and bodywork made repairs financially impractical. The owner was given a settlement based on the car's pre-accident value. The car was then sold for scrap metal. Its ruined state was irreversible due to the impact and comprehensive damage.
• The warehouse fire completely totaled the inventory. The flames rapidly consumed the building, destroying the stored goods and infrastructure. Insurance would cover some of the loss, but much of the stock would be lost forever. The financial and operational implications left the company with the task of rebuilding from scratch.
• The prototype underwent a catastrophic failure during testing and the engineering team declared the prototype totaled. Despite many repairs after earlier failures, the structural integrity was beyond repair this time. Valuable research data and potential advancements were lost, and the development process was reset.
• After years of escalating conflict and breaches of trust, their relationship was finally totaled. The emotional damage was extensive, leaving no opportunity for recovery. Both parties acknowledged that their connection was permanently ended, and that reconciliation was no longer a possibility due to damage.