abridge

[ uh-brij ]

verb (used with object)

, a·bridged, a·bridg·ing.

1. to shorten by omissions while retaining the basic contents:

   to abridge a reference book.

   Synonyms: epitomize, summarize, digest, abstract, condense

   Antonyms: lengthen

2. to reduce or lessen in duration, scope, authority, etc.; diminish; curtail: to abridge one's freedom.

   to abridge a visit;

   to abridge one's freedom.

   Synonyms: reduce, contract

   Antonyms: expand

3. to deprive; cut off.

abridge

/ əˈbrɪdʒ /

verb

1. to reduce the length of (a written work) by condensing or rewriting
2. to curtail; diminish
3. archaic.
   to deprive of (privileges, rights, etc)

Derived Forms

• aˈbridgable, adjective
• aˈbridger, noun

Other Words From

• a·bridg·a·ble a·bridge·a·ble adjective
• a·bridg·er noun
• non·a·bridg·a·ble adjective
• re·a·bridge verb (used with object) reabridged reabridging

Word History and Origins

Origin of abridge¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English abreggen, abriggen, from Middle French abreg(i)er, from Late Latin abbreviāre “to shorten”; a- ⁴, abbreviate

Word History and Origins

Origin of abridge¹

C14: via Old French abregier from Late Latin abbreviāre to shorten

Synonym Study

See shorten.

Example Sentences

If there’s a disadvantage to this abridged election, Stutzman said, it’s the limited time Harris has to introduce herself.

From Los Angeles Times

I would love to hear an abridged history of soy/tamari, as well as what led to your family originally becoming involved in the practice?

From Salon

I’ve seen two in my lifetime, both of them wisely abridged into two parts.

From Los Angeles Times

Maya Hawke’s acting duties also involve playing an assortment of O’Connor’s characters in abridged dramatizations of short stories — “The Life You Save May Be Your Own,” “Parker’s Back,” and a few other classic pieces.

From Los Angeles Times

The program for Evans and Harvey’s debut season includes a Ukrainian production of “King Lear” and an abridged, 80-minute outdoor “As You Like It.”

From New York Times

Related Words

• abbreviate
• curtail
• truncate