Load

Definition

Load is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to something that is carried, transported, or borne, such as cargo, a burden, or an amount of work. As a verb, it means to place or add a burden, cargo, or items onto or into something, such as a vehicle or container.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /loʊd/
• Respelling: lohd

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ləʊd/
• Respelling: lohd

Etymology

The word "load" originates from Old English "lad," meaning "way, course, or carriage," derived from Proto-Germanic "*laþō." It was later influenced by Old Norse "hlass," referring to a burden or cargo. Its modern meanings evolved in Middle English.

Derivatives

• Loader (noun)
• Loading (noun/verb)
• Overload (verb/noun)
• Loadable (adjective)
• Reload (verb)

Synonyms

• Burden
• Cargo
• Freight

Antonyms

• Unload
• Empty
• Lighten

Usage

The term "load" is used in transportation, computing, and colloquial contexts. Examples include "The truck carried a heavy load of goods," and "Please load the software onto your computer."

Related Terms

• Weight: The measure of how heavy something is.
• Capacity: The maximum amount something can hold.
• Burden: A load, especially a heavy one.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Something carried or borne: Refers to cargo or items transported by a person or vehicle.
  • Example: "The truck's load consisted of fresh produce."
• A burden or responsibility: Refers to a figurative or emotional weight.
  • Example: "She felt the load of responsibility on her shoulders."
• The electrical demand on a system: Used in contexts involving power or computing.
  • Example: "The generator can handle a maximum load of 500 kilowatts."

Verb

• To place items onto or into something: Refers to adding cargo or items to a vehicle or container.
  • Example: "They loaded the boxes onto the truck."
• To prepare for use: Refers to placing items or data into a device or system.
  • Example: "He loaded the gun before heading to the shooting range."
• To add pressure or weight: Refers to applying force or burden.
  • Example: "The bridge was loaded beyond its capacity."