Meaning & Definition of word "Desist"
to
Desist
/dɪˈzɪst/
verb:
- 1. To stop doing something; to cease or abstain from an action.
- Example: The protesters were urged to desist from their demonstrations when the authorities declared a state of emergency.
- 2. To refrain from proceeding with a particular course of action.
- Example: After considering the consequences, he decided to desist from filing a lawsuit.
- 3. To cease an activity that is harmful or unwelcome.
- Example: The company had to desist from using harmful substances in their manufacturing process.
- 4. To hold back or refrain from a specific behavior.
- Example: She was advised to desist from speaking negatively about her colleagues in the meeting.
Etymology
From Latin 'desistere', meaning 'to stand away, cease'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
desist from:
To stop or refrain from a particular action.
desist and desist:
An expression indicating to stop all activities or actions.
cease and desist:
A legal order to stop an activity.
Related Words
cease:
To bring or come to an end.
abstain:
To deliberately choose not to do something.
Slang Meanings of desist
Meaning: Back off
Example Sentence: You better back off and desist from that plan.
Meaning: Drop it
Example Sentence: Just drop it and desist already!