# totaled

/ˈtoʊtəɫd/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/totaled
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. destroyed beyond repair

adjective · CEFR B2 · American English · Informal

used to describe a vehicle that is so badly damaged that it would cost more to fix than it is worth.

For teachers: describing a vehicle damaged to the extent that the cost of repair exceeds its insured value; often used in insurance contexts.

- The insurance company said my car was totaled after the accident last week.
- Although the exterior damage appeared cosmetic, the structural compromise meant the vehicle was officially totaled by the adjusters.

Usage: Usually follows a linking verb like 'be' or 'get'.

## Examples

- My car was totaled in the crash last week.
- The insurance adjuster confirmed that the vehicle was totaled because the frame was bent beyond repair.
- Even though the engine still runs, the structural damage to the chassis means the car is officially totaled and will be sold for parts.

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