Meaning & Definition of word "Abbreviation"

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    Abbreviation

    /əˌbrɛvɪˈeɪʃən/

    noun:

    • 1. A shortened form of a word or phrase.
      • Example: The abbreviation 'USA' stands for 'United States of America.'
    • 2. The act of making something shorter.
      • Example: The abbreviation of long names can help save space in documents.
    • 3. A written or spoken representation of a word or phrase in a shorter form.
      • Example: Many scientific terms have common abbreviations to simplify communication.
    • 4. An abbreviation that is also a contraction, such as 'don't' for 'do not.'
      • Example: In informal writing, contractions are often used as an abbreviation.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'abbreviatio', meaning shortening.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    et cetera (etc.):

    Used at the end of a list to indicate that there are other things that could be included.

    for example (e.g.):

    Used to introduce an example.

    that is (i.e.):

    Used to clarify or explain further.

    Related Words

    acronym:

    A type of abbreviation formed from the initial letters of a series of words.

    initialism:

    An abbreviation consisting of initial letters pronounced separately.

    contraction:

    A word formed by shortening and combining two or more words.

    Slang Meanings of abbreviation

    Meaning: A quick way to say something.

    Example Sentence: BRB is a common abbreviation meaning 'be right back'.

    Meaning: Using letters to save time in conversation.

    Example Sentence: LOL is an abbreviation for 'laugh out loud'.