Abjure Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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abjure
[ÉbĖdŹŹÉ ]
Definition
formal
To solemnly renounce (a belief, cause, or claim). To abstain from or avoid something.
Synonyms
disavow, forswear, relinquish, renounce, repudiate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| abjure |
Use 'abjure' in formal or legal contexts when someone is solemnly renouncing or rejecting something, often a belief, cause, or claim.
|
| renounce |
Employ 'renounce' when someone is formally declaring their abandonment or rejection of a particular belief, claim, or position, often publicly.
|
| relinquish |
Use 'relinquish' when someone is voluntarily giving up or releasing control of something, typically responsibilities, rights, or possessions.
|
| forswear |
Use 'forswear' when someone is formally promising to give up something; usually in serious, often solemn contexts. It may also imply making a public commitment.
|
| repudiate |
Use 'repudiate' when someone rejects or denies the truth or validity of something, often in a forceful or emphatic way. It can denote personal disapproval or disowning someone or something.
|
| disavow |
Apply 'disavow' when someone is formally denying responsibility or support for something, often in a context where they are distancing themselves from a statement, action, or person.
|
Examples of usage
- He abjured his allegiance to the king.
- She abjured her former way of life and embraced a new philosophy.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In literature, characters frequently abjure certain beliefs after experiencing personal transformations.
- Historical figures, like Galileo, abjured their teachings under pressure, highlighting the struggle between personal conviction and societal norms.
- Many religious texts mention the act of abjuring as a form of repentance or returning to righteousness.
Legal Context
- The term is often used in legal settings where individuals renounce a previous allegiance or right, such as abjuring citizenship.
- In some countries, individuals must abjure past allegiances as part of the naturalization process.
- The concept of abjuration has ancient roots in feudal systems, where vassals had to abjure loyalty to their former lords.
Psychology
- Abjuration can be seen as a psychological defense mechanism, where an individual distances themselves from beliefs that no longer serve them.
- The act of abjuring can lead to cognitive dissonance, where the emotional conflict arises from holding two contradictory beliefs.
- Psychologists note that abjuration often follows a significant life event prompting a reevaluation of one's beliefs.
Vocabulary Connection
- The word 'abjure' has a close relationship with 'abrogate', meaning to eliminate or do away with responsibilities or beliefs.
- Both 'abjure' and 'renounce' carry similar meanings, though 'renounce' is used more broadly in everyday language.
- The prefix 'ab-' is common in words that imply moving away from something, like 'abstain' or 'abscond'.
Origin of 'abjure'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Latin 'abjurare', meaning 'to swear away'.
- It combines 'ab-' (meaning 'away from') and 'jurare' (meaning 'to swear').
- The use of this term dates back to Middle English, around the 14th century.
The word 'abjure' comes from the Latin word 'abjurare', which means 'to deny on oath'. It entered the English language in the 15th century. The act of abjuring was often done in a formal ceremony, where one would renounce their beliefs or allegiances. Over time, 'abjure' has come to be used more broadly to indicate a formal rejection or renouncement of something.