The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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abandon

verb

/əˈband(ə)n/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of abandon

To completely give up or leave something or someone, often in a sudden and unexpected manner.
"He had to abandon his car in the snowstorm and seek shelter."

Detailed meaning of abandon

It can be used to describe various situations, such as deserting a place or a person, withdrawing support or resources, or relinquishing a project or a plan. Abandonment typically implies a sense of finality and irreversibility, as well as a lack of concern or responsibility for the consequences of the action. It can be a deliberate or involuntary act, motivated by various factors, such as fear, frustration, disappointment, or indifference. Abandonment can have profound effects on individuals, organizations, and communities, leading to feelings of loss, betrayal, or neglect, and requiring strategies for coping and recovery.

Example sentences containing abandon

1. She had to abandon her old car on the side of the road.
2. The explorer had to abandon his mission due to a severe storm.
3. Don't abandon your dreams; keep working towards them.
4. The company decided to abandon the failing project.
5. Parents should never abandon their responsibilities.
6. He chose to abandon his unhealthy habits for a better life.

History and etymology of abandon

The verb 'abandon' has its etymological roots in the Old French word 'abandoner,' which, in turn, comes from the Latin word 'abandonare.' In Latin, 'ab' means 'away from' or 'completely,' and 'ad' means 'to' or 'toward,' while 'manus' means 'hand.' Therefore, 'abandonare' originally meant to release or relinquish something from one's hand, signifying a physical act of letting go. Over time, this notion of physically letting go evolved into the broader sense of forsaking or leaving something or someone entirely, often in a sudden and unexpected manner. The etymology of 'abandon' reflects this concept of complete and often abrupt desertion or surrender, emphasizing the act of walking away from something or someone without intention or care for what follows.

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Further usage examples of abandon

1. The shipwreck survivors had to abandon their sinking vessel.
2. They couldn't bear to abandon their beloved pet.
3. She felt the need to abandon her toxic relationship.
4. The marathon runner refused to abandon the race, despite injury.
5. The chef had to abandon the recipe and start over.
6. Abandoning the project wasn't an easy decision to make.
7. The team had to abandon the game due to bad weather.
8. It's important not to abandon hope in difficult times.
9. The astronauts had to abandon the malfunctioning spacecraft.
10. The hikers were forced to abandon their trek due to a blizzard.
11. Sometimes, it's necessary to abandon old traditions for progress.
12. She couldn't abandon her responsibilities, even on vacation.
13. The author had to abandon the first draft of the novel.
14. They had no choice but to abandon their home during the flood.