Gross
(Adjective, Noun & Verb) | Pronunciation: /ɡroʊs/
Definition & Meaning
The word “gross” has multiple meanings depending on its usage.
- As an adjective – It means total, excessive, or extremely unpleasant.
- As a noun – A total amount, especially before deductions (e.g., gross income).
- As a verb – To earn a certain amount before deductions (e.g., a movie grossing millions).
💡 Did You Know? The term “gross” is used in finance, measurements, and even casual speech to express disgust!
Word Origin & History
- Etymology: Derived from Old French “gros”, meaning “large” or “thick,” and Latin “grossus”, meaning “coarse” or “big.”
- Historical Usage: Originally used to mean “large in amount” but later gained meanings in business and everyday language.
- Cultural Influence: Commonly used in finance (gross profit), movies (box office gross), and slang (gross meaning disgusting).
📖 Example: The company reported a gross revenue of $10 million before expenses.
Synonyms & Antonyms
🔹 Synonyms (words with similar meanings)
- Total (financial)
- Disgusting
- Excessive
- Obvious
🔻 Antonyms (opposite meanings)
- Net (financial)
- Pleasant
- Minor
- Subtle
💡 Word Tip: Gross profit is the total earnings before deductions, while net profit is what remains after expenses.
Example Sentences
✅ The company had a gross profit of $5 million last year.
✅ That food looks gross—I don’t want to eat it!
✅ The movie grossed $100 million worldwide.
📌 Challenge: Can you use “gross” in a sentence? Share it in the comments!
Related Words & Phrases
These words are commonly associated with “gross”:
- Gross income
- Gross misconduct
- Gross negligence
- Gross earnings
Example: The phrase “gross misconduct” refers to serious wrongdoing at work.
Usage Trends & Popularity
🧐 Trending Now: The term “gross negligence” is often used in legal cases involving serious carelessness.
📢 Discuss: Have you ever seen something so gross that it made you feel sick?
Fun Activities & Challenges
🔠 Word Puzzle: Unscramble this word → S R O G S
🧠 Quick Quiz:
💭 Which of these is a synonym for “gross” (in the financial sense)?
A) Net
B) Total ✅
C) Pleasant
✍ Word Story Challenge: Write a short paragraph using “gross” creatively!
User Contributions & Comments
💬 Share Your Thoughts: What’s the most gross thing you’ve ever seen?
📢 Join the discussion below!
Advanced Learning & Fun Facts
Idioms & Phrases
- “Gross overstatement” – A huge exaggeration.
- “Gross misconduct” – Extremely bad behavior at work.
Scientific & Psychological Use
The term “gross motor skills” refers to large movements like walking and running, studied in child development.
Famous Quotes
“A gross error is not easily forgiven, but a minor one can be overlooked.”
— Unknown
💡 Did You Know? In business, “gross” is always before deductions, while “net” is after deductions!