Definition of the word wasted

The word "wasted" has a fascinating history. It's rooted in the Old English "wæstan," meaning "to lay waste," "to desolate," or "to destroy." This original meaning reflects the act of making something barren or unusable. Over time, the word evolved to describe things that were consumed or used up, leading to its modern use for something that's been squandered or lost. The term "wasted" as a slang expression for being drunk or intoxicated likely emerged in the late 19th or early 20th century, highlighting the loss of control and potential damage that excessive alcohol consumption can bring.