What Does Kaput Mean? Definition & Examples

Marcus Froland

Kaput. It’s a strange word, isn’t it? You may have heard it in movies or read it in books. But what does it actually mean? This little word has a way of sneaking into conversations and leaving people curious.

In this article, we’ll break down the meaning of “kaput” and show you how to use it in everyday sentences. You’ll soon see how this simple word can add color to your English vocabulary. Ready to find out more?

The meaning of kaput is simple: it means something is broken, no longer working, or ruined. This term often describes objects like machines or plans that can’t be fixed or used anymore. For example, if your old car won’t start and is too costly to repair, you might say it’s kaput. It’s also used in casual speech to express failure or the end of something, such as a project or event that didn’t succeed.

Introduction to the Word ‘Kaput’

The word ‘kaput’ is a common term we often hear. It means something is beyond fixable, totally useless, or completely destroyed. Knowing the meaning of kaput is key. It shows that what we’re talking about can’t be saved.

When we say something is kaput, we tell others it’s completely over. This word works well, whether we’re talking casually or more formally. From a toaster that won’t toast to a policy that doesn’t work, the introduction to kaput helps us express that something has reached its end clearly and simply.

Origin and Etymology of Kaput

The word ‘kaput’ began its journey in a French card game. The kaput origin is key to understanding its detailed history. It shows how the word moved through different languages.

The French Card Game Connection

In a card game named piquet, the French used terms like faire capot and être capot. These phrases meant either a total win or loss. It depicted clear outcomes where either all games were won or lost. The idea gradually merged into the German language.

Transition to English

The story of etymology of kaput highlights its move from French to German, becoming ‘kaputt.’ In German, it meant something was defeated or completely done. By 1895, the English language adopted it as ‘kaput.’ English speakers use ‘kaput’ to talk about things that are broken or not working. The kaput origin shows how words evolve, reflecting changes in culture and language.

Kaput: Definition and Synonyms

The definition of kaput is all about something that’s not working anymore. It’s about things that are broken beyond repair. This could be an old gadget that doesn’t turn on or a plan that failed. The word kaput perfectly captures the idea of something that can’t be fixed.

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Here are some synonyms for kaput to expand your word list:

  • Broken
  • Destroyed
  • Finished
  • Ruined
  • Done for
  • Out of order
  • Sunk
  • Hopelessly outmoded

These words share the same meaning as kaput. They are great for describing things that are no longer alive or working. Knowing these terms makes it easier to talk about broken or ended things. They are very useful when you need to explain something that is beyond saving.</

Remember, calling something kaput means it’s totally broken or gone.

Common Usage of Kaput in Everyday Language

In everyday language, “kaput” means something is beyond repair or no longer works. It can be an old gadget or a plan that didn’t work out. Using “kaput” is a quick way to say something has completely failed.

Examples in Sentences

Here are some ways “kaput” is used:

  • “The coffee machine is completely kaput, we need a new one.”
  • “After the storm, the power line was kaput for hours.”
  • “Their friendship went kaput after the heated argument.”

These sentences show “kaput” can describe broken items or personal conflicts.

Variations in Usage

“Kaput” has many uses. Sometimes it’s for small failures, like when a diet ends after dessert. Other times, it’s for big problems, like a company failing after a crisis. This makes “kaput” useful in both light and serious talks.

Getting to know “kaput” better can make your word choice richer. It’s great for saying something is at its end.

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