abjuration

American  

[ab-juh-rey-shuhn] / ˌæb dʒəˈreɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the act of abjuring.

2. renunciation upon oath.

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Other Word Forms

• nonabjuration noun

Etymology

Origin of abjuration

1505–15; < Medieval Latin abjūrātiōn- (stem of abjūrātiō ); see abjure, -ate ¹, -ion

Explanation

When you've given up your old ideas about something, or retracted a statement you made earlier, you can call it abjuration. Your conservative uncle might be frustrated at the abjuration of your former political opinions, especially if you become a progressive Democrat. Many people experience an abjuration of their religious beliefs, renouncing one faith for another or dropping religion from their lives altogether. When you abjure something, you give it up or renounce it. The Latin root is abiurare, "deny on oath."

Example Sentences

The Bishop beckons to one of the registrars, who brings to him a parchment containing the formula of abjuration.

From The Executioner's Knife Or Joan of Arc by Sue, Eug?ne

On the second day after the abjuration, the patient is out of danger.

From The Executioner's Knife Or Joan of Arc by Sue, Eug?ne

The vow of perpetual seclusion comprises a renunciation of the pleasures and business of life, an abnegation of the claims of consanguinity, friendship and society; and an abjuration of all filial, parental and natural affection.

From Monks, Popes, and their Political Intrigues by Alberger, John

Doubts, however, as to the genuineness of his abjuration again troubled the Kirk.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 13, Slice 8 "Hudson River" to "Hurstmonceaux" by Various

Henry IV., after his victories, his abjuration, and his coronation, caused a cross to be erected in Rome, with the following inscription: In hoc signa vincis.

From Voltaire: A Sketch of his Life and Works by Foote, G. W. (George William)