noun
loss
A failure to win a contest or competition.
The team suffers its first loss of the season.
Etymology
Loss is the noun corresponding to lose. In a contest, it names the unsuccessful outcome itself, extending the broader idea of deprivation or failure.
More examples
- She recovered quickly from the loss.
- Three losses ended their hopes of advancing.
- He accepted the narrow loss with good grace.
Forms
loss · losses
Similar words
- defeat
- Failure to win a contest.
- setback
- A reversal that need not be a completed contest loss.