Dictionary entries for 'abandon'

Synonyms

a·ban·don (ə-băńdən)

[Middle English abandounen, from Old French abandoner, from a bandon, a, at (from Latin ad; see ad–), + bandon, control.]

transitive verb: -doned, -don·ing, -dons.

To withdraw one's support or help from, especially in spite of duty, allegiance, or responsibility; desert: abandon a friend in trouble.
To give up by leaving or ceasing to operate or inhabit, especially as a result of danger or other impending threat: abandoned the ship.
To surrender one's claim to, right to, or interest in; give up entirely. See synonyms at relinquish
To cease trying to continue; desist from: abandoned the search for the missing hiker.
To yield (oneself) completely, as to emotion.