Disowning: meaning, definitions and examples

family relations

Disowning refers to the act of officially stating that one no longer recognizes or associates with a person, typically a family member. It often involves a formal declaration or rejection of responsibility or connection. This can occur in situations of severe conflict, disagreement, or shame. Disowning can have significant emotional effects on both the individual who disowns and the one being disowned, leading to feelings of isolation or abandonment.

abandon, disinherit, reject

Examples of usage

• She decided to disown her son after his criminal activities.

• Many parents feel heartbroken when they disown their children.

• After the scandal, the politician was publicly disowned by his family.