Meaning & Definition of word "Abridge"

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    Abridge

    /əˈbrɪdʒ/

    verb:

    • 1. To shorten (a book, movie, speech, etc.) by cutting out some parts.
      • Example: The editor decided to abridge the novel to make it more accessible to young readers.
    • 2. To reduce the scope or extent of something.
      • Example: The company had to abridge its budget due to unforeseen expenses.
    • 3. To curtail or limit something, often relating to rights or privileges.
      • Example: The new law seeks to abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution.

    Etymology

    Middle English, from Old French 'abregier', from Latin 'abridgere', from 'ad-' + 'bridgere' (meaning to break).

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    abridged version:

    A shortened form of a text that maintains the main points.

    to abridge one’s rights:

    To diminish or limit someone's rights.

    Related Words

    abridgment:

    The act of abridging; a shortened form of a work.

    abridged:

    Reduced in length or size.

    Slang Meanings of abridge

    Meaning: To cut out the unnecessary parts.

    Example Sentence: They totally abridged that movie for TV.

    Meaning: To make something simpler.

    Example Sentence: Let’s abridge this discussion, we can work out the details later.