abs

¹

[ abz ]

plural noun

, Informal.

1. abdominal muscles.

ABS

²

1. antilock braking system.

abs-

³

1. variant of ab-:

   absent; abscond.

abs.

⁴

abbreviation for

1. absent.
2. absolute.
3. abstract.

A.B.S.

⁵

abbreviation for

1. American Bible Society.
2. American Bureau of Shipping.

ABS

¹

abbreviation for

1. acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene: any of a range of tough copolymers used esp for making moulded articles

abs

²

/ æbz /

plural noun

1. informal.
   abdominal muscles

Word History and Origins

Origin of abs¹

An Americanism dating back to 1980–85; by shortening

Example Sentences

Murray wasn’t worried about baring his abs for the film — it was the dancing that terrified him.

From Los Angeles Times

The also have technology that prevents wheels from locking when the train is moving – which Rob describes as “a bit like ABS on a car”.

From BBC

At a follow-up visit after her surgery, the accusation states, Mowlavi brought another prospective patient into the room where Patient D was lying undressed and told her to “flex” her abs.

From Los Angeles Times

He says the room was dimly lit with erotic photos of men’s abs adorning the dark walls.

From BBC

Another standout is Freddie, 32, a funeral director with a heart of gold and abs carved from marble.

From Los Angeles Times