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Abolished Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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abolished

[əˈbɑːlɪʃt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

legal context

The term 'abolished' refers to the formal annulling or putting an end to a law, practice, or institution. It is often used in contexts involving social reform or legislative action. The act of abolishing can denote the complete eradication of something that is considered outdated or unjust. Historical examples include the abolition of slavery and the termination of various discriminatory laws. In essence, to abolish signifies a decisive action that changes the status quo.

Synonyms

annul, eliminate, invalidate, revoke, terminate.

Examples of usage

  • The law was abolished in 1865.
  • The organization campaigned to have the death penalty abolished.
  • Many countries have abolished child labor.
  • The policy was abolished after widespread protests.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word comes from the Latin 'abolere' meaning to 'destroy, put an end to', highlighting its strong roots in the idea of ending something.
  • Abolition movements, particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries, aimed to end practices like slavery, leading to significant social and political changes.

Legislation

  • Countries such as the United States and England formally abolished slavery through significant legislative acts, reflecting a moral shift in society.
  • In 1865, the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution abolished slavery, which was a landmark moment in American history.

Cultural Impact

  • Abolition has influenced numerous artworks, literature, and music, inspiring themes of freedom and human rights.
  • Prominent abolitionist figures like Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman are celebrated for their roles in ending slavery and are key figures in American culture.

Economic Factors

  • The abolition of slavery had profound economic impacts, leading to changes in labor systems, agriculture, and industrialization.
  • Post-abolition, societies faced the challenge of integrating freed individuals into the workforce, reshaping economies and communities.

Modern Context

  • In contemporary discussions, the term is used in various contexts such as the abolition of the death penalty and other forms of judicial punishment.
  • Activists today often call for the abolition of certain systems or practices viewed as unjust, indicating the ongoing relevance of the word.

Origin of 'abolished'

The word 'abolished' comes from the Latin term 'abolere', which means 'to destroy' or 'to put away'. This Latin root was used in the context of annulling laws and practices that were seen as unjust or unnecessary. The term evolved into Middle English 'abolishen' in the late 14th century, adopting its current spelling and meaning. Originally, the use of 'abolished' was heavily associated with significant societal changes, such as the abolition of serfdom in various parts of Europe. In the United States, 'abolished' became particularly prominent in the 19th century during the movement to end slavery, highlighting its powerful implications for human rights and justice. Over time, the term has broadened to encompass various forms of legal and social reforms aimed at ending practices considered unethical or outdated.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,076 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.