Abandoned: meaning, definitions and examples

Suitable when something or someone has been left behind or given up completely, often implying neglect or lack of care.

• The old house looked abandoned after years of neglect
• He felt abandoned by his friends when they left him alone

Used when a place or location is empty of people, giving a sense of loneliness.

• The streets were deserted late at night
• The store was deserted after the sale ended

Describes something or someone that has been completely given up or discarded, often with a strong emotional or dramatic undertone; carries a negative connotation.

• She felt forsaken by her family during hard times
• The once-thriving village was now a forsaken place

Applied to things or people that are not desired or needed, often implying rejection; also has a negative tone.

• The puppy was unwanted and left at the shelter
• He felt like an unwanted guest at the party

Used when describing something or someone left alone, usually implying that the action is intentional and often negative.

• The abandoned house looked spooky.
• She felt abandoned by her friends.

Used in general contexts where someone or something is going away from a place or a person. It doesn't imply negative intention by default.

• They decided to leave the city for a while.
• She left her job to travel the world.

Used when someone leaves a place or a person, often implying the act is a betrayal or done in a time of need.

• He decided to desert his comrades in the middle of the mission.
• Families were deserting their homes amid the war.

Used when getting rid of something that is no longer wanted or needed. Often used for objects rather than people.

• She decided to discard all the old clothes.
• Please discard any trash in the bin.