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English Dictionary

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 abstract abstract /ˈæbstrækt/

adjective

  1. () Existing only in the mind; separated from embodiment  ( abstract )
    existing only in the mind; separated from embodiment
     Abstract words like truth' and justice'
    abstract words like truth' and justice'
  2. () Not representing or imitating external reality or the objects of nature  ( abstractionist , nonfigurative , nonobjective , abstract )
    not representing or imitating external reality or the objects of nature
     A large abstract painting
    a large abstract painting
  3. Dealing with a subject in the abstract without practical purpose or intention  ( abstract )
    dealing with a subject in the abstract without practical purpose or intention
     Abstract reasoning
    abstract reasoning
     Abstract science
    abstract science

noun

  1. () A concept or idea not associated with any specific instance  ( abstract , abstraction )
    a concept or idea not associated with any specific instance
     He loved her only in the abstract--not in person
    he loved her only in the abstract--not in person
  2. A sketchy summary of the main points of an argument or theory  ( abstract , precis , synopsis , outline )
    a sketchy summary of the main points of an argument or theory

verb

  1. () Consider a concept without thinking of a specific example; consider abstractly or theoretically  ( abstract )
    consider a concept without thinking of a specific example; consider abstractly or theoretically
      The artist attempted to abstract the essence of the scene in their painting.
    The artist attempted to abstract the essence of the scene in their painting.
  2. () Consider apart from a particular case or instance  ( abstract )
    consider apart from a particular case or instance
     Let's abstract away from this particular example
    Let's abstract away from this particular example
  3. () Make off with belongings of others  ( cabbage , filch , hook , abstract , nobble , pinch , snarf , sneak , swipe , lift , pilfer , purloin )
    make off with belongings of others
  4. Give an abstract (of)  ( abstract )
    give an abstract (of)