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Secede Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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secede

[sɪˈsiːd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

political separation

To secede means to formally withdraw from an organization, alliance, or political entity. This act is often associated with states or regions leaving a nation, particularly during times of conflict or disagreement over governance. Secession can lead to significant political and social ramifications, including wars and changes in territorial boundaries. The term is historically rooted in various movements, especially during the American Civil War, when Southern states attempted to secede from the Union.

Synonyms

break away, detach, disengage, withdraw.

Examples of usage

  • The Southern states sought to secede during the Civil War.
  • In 2014, Crimea held a referendum to secede from Ukraine.
  • The group decided to secede from the larger organization due to ideological differences.

Translations

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

Origin of 'secede'

The word 'secede' comes from the Latin term 'secedere', which means 'to go apart' or 'to separate'. This Latin root combines the prefix 'se-' meaning 'apart' and 'cedere' meaning 'to go' or 'to yield'. The term began to gain prominence in English during the early 19th century, especially in the context of the political discourse surrounding the U.S. Civil War. It became a defining term for the actions of the Confederate states as they attempted to establish themselves as separate entities from the Union. Over the years, 'secede' has been applied to various contexts of separation, including colonies seeking independence, regions desiring autonomy, and groups distancing themselves from larger organizations. The implications of secession are often profound, affecting not just political structures but also social, economic, and cultural relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,509, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.