Vocabulary Spotlight
Abide
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition: To accept or act in accordance with; to tolerate or bear patiently.
“They had to abide by the rules to participate in the competition.”
Pronunciation
[əˈbaɪd]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Follow
Obey
Endure
Tolerate
Antonyms
Defy
Reject
Ignore
Avoid
Related Words
Abiding (adjective)
Word Origin
“Abide” comes from the Old English word “ābīdan,” which means “to wait” or “remain.” It has retained its original sense of enduring or accepting over time and is often associated with following rules or tolerating a difficult situation.
Word Family
Noun: Abidance – The act of abiding or complying.
Verb: Abide – To comply with, endure, or remain.
Adjective: Abiding – Lasting or enduring.
Mnemonics
Think of “Abide” as “A Bid” to follow – like bidding (agreeing) to follow or endure something.
Alternatively, imagine “Abide” as “A-Bide” – a rule that someone agrees to wait or remain by.
Industry-specific Usage
Law
In law, to “abide by” a decision means to follow or comply with the ruling or judgment set forth by a court.
Business
In business, “abide by” regulations means to comply with legal and regulatory requirements within the industry.
Education
In educational settings, students and staff must “abide by” school policies, which means adhering to established guidelines and rules.
In Context
To “abide” is often used in formal or legal language, indicating adherence to rules, decisions, or regulations. In daily life, it can also mean patiently tolerating or putting up with a situation, reflecting endurance and resilience.