Pronunciation: ' r ī t- ˌ o ̇ f
Function: noun
Date: 1905
1 : an elimination of an item from the books of account
2 a : a reduction in book value of an item (as by way of depreciation) b : a tax deduction of an amount of depreciation, expense, or loss
3 chiefly British : something (as a damaged vehicle) or someone regarded or conceded as a loss