Abandonment

/əˈbændənmənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the act of leaving someone or something behind, often in a way that is considered neglectful or irresponsible.

The abandonment of the old building led to concerns about safety and vandalism.

the state of being abandoned.

The abandonment of the project left many employees without jobs.

the act of giving up a right, claim, or property.

The abandonment of the lease agreement meant that the tenant no longer had any legal rights to the property.

emotional or psychological withdrawal from something.

Her feelings of abandonment as a child affected her relationships in adulthood.

the act of ceasing to support or look after something.

Abandonment of the spacecraft was necessary due to budget cuts.

Derived from Middle English 'abandonment', from Old French 'abandonement', from 'abandonner' meaning 'to give up, leave behind'.

abandon ship

To leave a ship that is sinking or in distress.

abandon hope

To give up any hope or optimism for a situation.

abandonment of duty

Neglecting one's responsibilities or obligations.

abandon

To leave someone or something behind.

abandoned

Left behind or deserted.

abandoner

A person who abandons something or someone.

Ghosting

He totally ghosted her, just like an abandonment in a relationship.

Dip out

She decided to dip out of the party early, showing her abandonment of her friends.