Meaning & Definition of word "Abridge"

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.