Meaning & Definition of word "Cancel"

Cancel

/ˈkænsl/

verb:

  • 1. To annul or make void (a decision, order, or law).
    • Example: The company decided to cancel the event due to bad weather.
  • 2. To call off or terminate (an arrangement or subscription).
    • Example: She chose to cancel her gym membership after a year.
  • 3. To invalidate a previously made appointment.
    • Example: He had to cancel his doctor's appointment because of a scheduling conflict.
  • 4. To stop or prohibit (an action).
    • Example: The manager had to cancel the meeting after several team members couldn't attend.

Etymology

From Latin 'cancella', meaning 'to cross out, to annul'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

cancel culture:

A phenomenon where a group collectively decides to withdraw support for someone or something, especially on social media.

cancel an order:

To nullify a request for goods or services that was previously made.

cancel a subscription:

To stop an ongoing payment plan for a service.

Related Words

annul:

To declare something as invalid or void.

revoke:

To take back or withdraw officially.

Slang Meanings of cancel

Meaning: To cancel someone socially or professionally.

Example Sentence: After that scandal, they were totally canceled by their fans.

Meaning: To dismiss or remove something from consideration.

Example Sentence: The project was canceled after the budget cuts.