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

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discard

verb

/dɪˈskɑːd/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of discard

To get rid of something that is no longer needed, useful, or desired.
"He had to discard his old jeans because they no longer fit."

Detailed meaning of discard

This can involve physically throwing something away, such as discarding an old piece of furniture, or figuratively casting something aside, such as discarding a bad habit or an outdated idea. The term discard suggests a sense of rejection or abandonment, and often implies that the item or idea being discarded is no longer valuable or relevant. Discard can also be used as a noun to refer to something that has been discarded, such as a pile of discards or a discard bin. The word discard is commonly used in a variety of contexts, including household cleaning, sports, and gaming, where it refers to getting rid of unwanted cards or tiles. Overall, discard is a term used to describe the act of disposing of something that is no longer needed, useful, or desirable, either literally or figuratively.

Example sentences containing discard

1. I had to discard the moldy bread I found in the kitchen.
2. The company decided to discard their outdated product line.
3. The chef told us to discard the burnt pieces of food.
4. She decided to discard the old furniture and start fresh.
5. The athlete had to discard their plan due to an unexpected injury.
6. I always discard expired food from my pantry.

History and etymology of discard

The verb 'discard' has its roots in Middle English. It can be traced back to the Middle English word 'discarden,' which is a combination of 'dis-' meaning 'away' and 'carden,' meaning 'to card' or 'to throw.' In the context of carding, it meant to remove impurities from fibers by tossing them away. Over time, 'discard' evolved in English to describe the action of getting rid of something that is no longer needed, useful, or desired, much like the act of tossing aside unwanted or unnecessary items. The etymology of 'discard' thus reflects its historical connection to the idea of removal and disposal, emphasizing the act of discarding or casting something away.

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Further usage examples of discard

1. The accountant recommended that we discard unnecessary expenses to reduce costs.
2. The project manager had to discard their initial design due to budget constraints.
3. The gardener suggested we discard the diseased plants to prevent further damage.
4. I had to discard some old papers to make space for new ones.
5. The artist had to discard their first draft and start over from scratch.
6. Every spring, I discard old clothes to make room for new seasonal items.
7. Many people discard food packaging without considering its recyclability.
8. If the medication has expired, it's best to discard it safely and promptly.
9. To declutter, discard items that no longer serve a functional or emotional purpose.
10. Companies often discard outdated equipment, leading to electronic waste issues.
11. When writing, I discard unnecessary words to make my sentences more concise.
12. After the festive season, cities arrange for people to discard their Christmas trees.
13. As technology evolves, we discard gadgets that were once considered essential.
14. Before moving, discard broken furniture to lighten the load and ease the process.
15. In relationships, it's important not to discard trust over small disagreements.
16. To maintain hygiene, restaurants discard perishables that are past their prime.
17. The artist had to discard several drafts before arriving at the final masterpiece.
18. Before painting, discard dust and debris from the surface for a smoother finish.
19. Fishermen discard unwanted catch, leading to issues of waste and ecological harm.
20. Environmentalists urge people to discard plastics in designated recycling bins.
21. When reading critically, discard assumptions to better understand the text.
22. To improve your mindset, discard negative thoughts that hold you back.
23. The store's policy allows you to discard unwanted items within 30 days for a refund.
24. In the recipe, discard the bay leaves before serving the stew for better texture.
25. Cyclists often discard water bottles, creating litter along scenic routes.