Vocabulary Spotlight
Abnegate
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition: To renounce or reject something, often as a form of self-denial.
“He chose to abnegate his privileges to lead a simpler life.”
Pronunciation
[ˈæb.nɪˌɡeɪt]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Reject
Relinquish
Forsake
Forgo
Antonyms
Embrace
Indulge
Take on
Claim
Related Words
Deny (verb)
Word Origin
“Abnegate” comes from the Latin “abnegare,” meaning “to deny” or “to refuse.” The prefix “ab-” means “away,” and “negare” means “to deny.” This word often implies self-sacrifice or deliberate restraint.
Word Family
Verb: Abnegate – To renounce or reject something.
Noun: Abnegation – The act of renouncing or denying oneself something.
Mnemonics
Think of “Abnegate” as “Abstain + Negate” – meaning to abstain or reject, typically in a self-denying way.
Alternatively, remember “Ab-negate” as pushing something “away by negating it” or refusing it.
Industry-specific Usage
Philosophy
In philosophy, abnegation is often discussed in terms of self-denial, discipline, or rejecting material desires.
Religion
In religious practices, to abnegate may refer to giving up certain pleasures or luxuries as a form of spiritual discipline.
Psychology
In psychology, abnegation might relate to self-denying behaviors often associated with certain personality traits or conditions.
In Context
To “abnegate” is commonly used to indicate self-sacrifice or the deliberate act of giving up something valued. It often carries a moral or ethical dimension, suggesting discipline and strength.