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Abjured Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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abjured

[əbˈdʒʊrd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

formal rejection

To abjure is to formally renounce or reject a belief, cause, or claim. This term is often used in contexts where someone publicly disavows previously held views or affiliations, particularly in legal or religious matters. Abjuring can signify a serious commitment to abandon what was once held dear, as it may involve solemn oaths or declarations. The act of abjuration indicates a significant transformation in a person's beliefs or convictions.

Synonyms

disavow, reject, renounce, repudiate.

Examples of usage

  • She abjured her previous beliefs after years of contemplation.
  • The politician abjured his former party in a public statement.
  • He abjured violence as a means to achieve his goals.
  • After the scandal, she had to abjure her connections to the organization.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • The term often appears in classical literature where characters renounce their previous beliefs or allegiances.
  • In Shakespearean plays, characters frequently abjure their past actions, reflecting on themes of redemption and change.
  • John Milton's 'Paradise Lost' features characters who abjure their previous lives, highlighting a transformative journey.

Legal Context

  • In legal settings, 'abjuration' can refer to formally renouncing a right or a claim.
  • Historically, individuals would abjure allegiance to a ruler or government, especially in cases of treason.
  • Abjuration was also a significant aspect of medieval trials, where accused individuals might abjure sins or wrongful actions.

Psychology

  • Abjuring certain beliefs can be a sign of cognitive dissonance, where individuals shift their views to align with new information.
  • The process of abjuration can be cathartic, helping individuals release past beliefs that no longer serve them.
  • People who abjure old beliefs often undergo a psychological transformation, enabling personal growth.

Origin of 'abjured'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'abjurare', meaning 'to deny' or 'to swear away'.
  • In Old French, the word took on a similar meaning, reinforcing its roots in rejection and denial.
  • It's made from 'ab-' meaning 'away from' and 'jurare' meaning 'to swear' or 'to take an oath'.

The term 'abjure' comes from the Latin word 'abjurare,' which means 'to swear away.' This combination derives from 'ab,' meaning 'away from,' and 'jurare,' which means 'to swear.' The concept of abjuration has been present since the Middle Ages, often tied to legal and ecclesiastical contexts where individuals would renounce certain beliefs or claims, particularly in matters regarding faith or loyalty. Historically, individuals who abjured their previous allegiances often did so under duress or in the face of social or political pressure. The word has evolved but retains its formal connotation of rejecting something once accepted.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,087 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.