Pronunciation: [tˈɒt] (IPA) 
The word "tot" is spelled just as it is pronounced. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /tɒt/ for British English and /tɑt/ for American English. This simple three-letter word refers to a small child or a tiny amount, and the spelling follows the basic pattern of English pronunciation, in which the letter "o" makes a short "ah" sound, and the letter "t" produces a basic "tuh" sound. Therefore, it is easy to remember and spell correctly.
Tot (noun):
1. A young child, especially one who is just beginning to walk; a toddler. Tots are typically between the ages of 1 and 3 years old and are in the early stages of development and exploration.
2. A small amount or portion of something; a fragment or a bit. Tots are often used to describe a very small quantity or size, usually in reference to food or beverages.
3. To tally or add up; to calculate the total of something. When used as a verb, tot means to sum up or count the full amount of a set of numbers or figures.
4. To drink alcoholic beverages excessively or habitually; to be a heavy drinker. This colloquial use of the term "tot" is common in certain regions, particularly in British English, where it refers to an individual who drinks heavily or excessively.
5. To secure in a place firmly; to fasten or secure something. In this context, tot is often used to describe the action of tying or securing an object or item in place.
Overall, "tot" has multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. It can refer to a young child, a small amount, a calculation, excessive drinking, or an action of securing something.
Anything small, as a term of endearment; anything small of its kind: to tot about, to move about with short steps, as a child attenpting to walk, or a feedle old person: to tot down, to jot down; to mark with a slight touch of the pen.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "tot" is of uncertain origin. It emerged in the late 18th century as a colloquialism, primarily used in Scotland and Northern England, to mean a small child. There are a few theories regarding its etymology:
1. Scottish dialect: Some suggest that "tot" comes from the Scots word "tottie", which means a small child or little one. The phonetic similarity and geographical association led to the hypothesis that "tot" derived from this Scots term.
2. Old Norse: Another theory posits that "tot" originates from Old Norse "tottr", meaning a small child or a small object. Since Old Norse had some influence on the English language, especially in the north, it is conceivable that "tot" was adopted from this source.
Regardless of its exact origins, "tot" has remained in use, predominantly in British English, to describe a small child.
