Vocabulary Spotlight
Abjure
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition: To formally renounce or give up a belief, cause, or claim, often under oath.
“Under pressure, he decided to abjure his previous allegiance to the organization.”
Pronunciation
[æbˈdʒʊər]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Forsake
Repudiate
Reject
Disavow
Antonyms
Adopt
Embrace
Acknowledge
Maintain
Related Words
Renounce (verb)
Forsake (verb)
Word Origin
“Abjure” derives from the Latin “abjurare,” meaning “to deny on oath.” The prefix “ab-” means “away,” and “jurare” means “to swear.” It came into English through Old French in the 14th century, commonly used to denote a solemn renunciation.
Word Family
Noun: Abjuration – The act of formally renouncing or disavowing something.
Verb: Abjure – To formally renounce or reject something.
Mnemonics
Think of “Abjure” as “Ab-Jury” – to reject or turn away from a jury, symbolizing a formal renouncement.
Another mnemonic: “Abjure” sounds like “a big jur-y” – to swear off or renounce in a formal way.
Industry-specific Usage
Law
In legal contexts, to “abjure” may mean to formally renounce a citizenship or previous loyalty under oath.
Religion
In religious history, abjuration was required of individuals who converted from one faith to another or renounced former beliefs.
Politics
In politics, individuals may abjure allegiance to a government or ideology as a form of protest or due to ideological shifts.
In Context
To “abjure” is a formal act of rejection or renunciation, often involving a public statement or oath. It can be applied in contexts where a person gives up previous beliefs, allegiance, or legal standing, and is seen as a strong and deliberate decision.