Amount

Definition

Amount is a noun that refers to the total quantity or sum of something. As a verb, it means to add up in total or to become a particular quantity.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈmaʊnt/
• Respelling: uh-MOUNT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈmaʊnt/
• Respelling: uh-MOUNT

Etymology

The word "amount" originates from the Old French "amunter," meaning "to go up" or "to rise," derived from Latin "ad montem," meaning "to the mountain," suggesting a piling or accumulation. It entered Middle English with the meaning of adding up or accumulating a total.

Derivatives

• Amounted (verb, past tense)
• Amounting (verb, present participle)
• Amountable (adjective, rare)
• Overamount (noun, rare)
• Amountless (adjective, informal)

Synonyms

• Quantity
• Sum
• Total

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "amount" is used in both everyday and formal language to denote quantities or sums. For example, "The amount of rainfall this year is higher than average," or "These expenses amount to a considerable sum."

Related Terms

• Quantity: The measurable extent or quantity of something.
• Sum: The result of adding two or more amounts.
• Total: The whole or complete quantity of something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The total quantity of something: Refers to the sum or aggregate of items or quantities.
  • Example: "The amount of sugar needed for the recipe is one cup."
• A sum of money or measure: Often used to refer to a specific quantity in a financial or numerical sense.
  • Example: "He donated a large amount to charity."

Verb

• To add up in total: Refers to the act of totaling or accumulating.
  • Example: "His earnings amount to a significant figure."
• To be equivalent to: Used to indicate that something is equal in meaning or significance.
  • Example: "Their actions amount to defiance."