Meaning & Definition of Abstract in English
English⟶
Abstract
/æbstrækt/
noun
1. A concept or idea not associated with any specific instance
- "He loved her only in the abstract--not in person"
synonym:
- abstraction,
- abstract
2. A sketchy summary of the main points of an argument or theory
synonym:
- outline,
- synopsis,
- abstract,
- precis
verb
1. Consider a concept without thinking of a specific example
- Consider abstractly or theoretically
synonym:
- abstract
2. Make off with belongings of others
synonym:
- pilfer,
- cabbage,
- purloin,
- pinch,
- abstract,
- snarf,
- swipe,
- hook,
- sneak,
- filch,
- nobble,
- lift
3. Consider apart from a particular case or instance
- "Let's abstract away from this particular example"
synonym:
- abstract
4. Give an abstract (of)
synonym:
- abstract
adjective
1. Existing only in the mind
- Separated from embodiment
- "Abstract words like `truth' and `justice'"
synonym:
- abstract
2. Not representing or imitating external reality or the objects of nature
- "A large abstract painting"
synonym:
- abstract,
- abstractionist,
- nonfigurative,
- nonobjective
3. Dealing with a subject in the abstract without practical purpose or intention
- "Abstract reasoning"
- "Abstract science"
synonym:
- abstract
Examples of using
I didn't read the paper, but I read the abstract.
For him, hunger was an abstract concept. He had always had enough food.
The theory is too abstract for me.