Pronunciation: [tˈə͡ʊtɪd ˈʌp] (IPA) 
The phrase "toted up" refers to the act of adding up or totaling a sum. The spelling of this phrase can be explained in IPA phonetic transcription as /toʊtɛd ʌp/. The first syllable "to" is pronounced with a long "o" sound as in "toe," and the second syllable "ted" has a short "e" sound as in "bed." The final syllable "up" is pronounced with a schwa sound as in "uh." Together, these sounds create the spelling "t-o-t-e-d u-p."
"Toted up" is a colloquial term that refers to the act of adding, calculating, or summarizing numerical values. Derived from the word "tote," which originally described the action of carrying or hauling, "toted up" specifically applies to mathematical operations involving the summation or totalization of numbers.
In a broader sense, "toted up" can also be used metaphorically to describe the process of compiling, counting, or assessing various components or factors in a non-numerical context. It implies diligently accounting for and aggregating multiple elements to arrive at a comprehensive or conclusive result.
The expression can be applied to various scenarios such as financial accounting, inventory management, scorekeeping in games or sports, and statistical analysis. For instance, a store owner may "tote up" the daily sales to determine the total revenue earned. Similarly, a sports commentator might "tote up" the scores of a game to determine the winning team.
When someone uses the phrase "toted up," it suggests a systematic, thorough, and organized approach to computing or evaluating numerical or non-numerical data. It conveys the idea of carefully considering and calculating all pertinent details to ensure accuracy and completeness, whether in numerical calculations or a more abstract assessment.
The term "toted up" originated from the verb "to tote".
The word "tote" has its roots in the 17th century English dialect, particularly in parts of Britain, Scotland, and the United States. It was derived from the Old English word "totian", meaning "to carry" or "to convey".
Over time, "tote" evolved to refer to carrying or hauling things, often implying the use of one's arms or hands instead of a vehicle or other means of transportation. It became commonly used in rural and colloquial speech.
The phrase "toted up" specifically emerged as a colloquial expression meaning to count, add, or tally up something. It likely developed from the notion of physically carrying or adding up items, as though one is accumulating or totaling them. This usage is most prevalent in informal contexts, such as everyday conversations or regional dialects.
