There was a gain of five yards on first down, but a loss of three yards on second down.

LOSS definition: detriment, disadvantage, or deprivation from failure to keep, have, or get. See examples of loss used in a sentence.

LOSS definition: 1. the fact that you no longer have something or have less of something: 2. a disadvantage caused…. Learn more.

loss (lɔs, lɒs) n. 1. the act of losing possession of something. 2. disadvantage or deprivation from separation or loss: bearing the loss of a robbery. 3. something that is lost. 4. an amount or number …

A loss is the disadvantage you suffer when a valuable and useful person or thing leaves or is taken away.

loss (lôs, los), n. detriment, disadvantage, or deprivation from failure to keep, have, or get: to bear the loss of a robbery. something that is lost: The painting was the greatest loss from the robbery. an …

Jan 20, 2026 · Noun loss (countable and uncountable, plural losses) (countable) The result of no longer possessing an object, a function, or a characteristic due to external causes or misplacement.

Loss could also refer to the experience of grief or sorrow as a result of death, separation, or injury. In business and finance, loss means not making a profit or losing money on an investment or activity.

There are 19 meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun loss, three of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

The condition of being deprived or bereaved of something or someone. Her loss was made easier by the support of her friends.