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ab·di·cate

abdicate

pronunciation:
aeb d keIt
parts of speech:
intransitive verb, transitive verb
features:
Word Explorer
part of speech: intransitive verb
inflections: abdicated, abdicates, abdicating
definition: to formally relinquish a position of power, a claim, or a right.
The ailing king was advised to abdicate.
antonyms:
accede
similar words:
resign
 
part of speech: transitive verb
definition 1: to relinquish or renounce (a position of power or the like).
The king announced he would abdicate the throne.
synonyms:
relinquish, renounce
antonyms:
accede, assume
similar words:
abnegate, cede, forsake, resign, yield
definition 2: to refuse to fulfill (a responsibility or the like).
By refusing to carry out the order, the soldier abdicated his duty.
synonyms:
refuse, repudiate
antonyms:
accept
similar words:
disown, reject
derivations: abdication (n.), abdicator (n.)
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See
  monarchy