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abdicate

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Dictionary definition of abdicate

To formally renounce or give up a position of power or responsibility, such as a throne or a office.
"The aging monarch announced he would abdicate in favor of his son."

Detailed meaning of abdicate

It is most commonly used in the context of royalty and politics, where a ruler or leader may abdicate their position in favor of someone else. Abdication can happen voluntarily, as when a monarch chooses to step down from the throne, or involuntarily, as when a leader is deposed or forced to give up power. Abdication often has significant political or social consequences, as it can change the balance of power within a country or organization. It is also used in the context of some other responsibilities, such as parenthood, where a parent may abdicate their responsibilities towards their child.

Example sentences containing abdicate

1. The king chose to abdicate the throne for the sake of peace.
2. She couldn't bear the pressure and decided to abdicate her role.
3. The CEO had to abdicate his position due to a scandal.
4. When faced with the challenge, he chose to abdicate rather than lead.
5. The leader decided to abdicate his authority to a trusted successor.
6. The queen abdicated after a long and prosperous reign.

History and etymology of abdicate

The verb 'abdicate' has its origins in Latin, coming from the word 'abdicate,' which means 'to disown' or 'to renounce.' It is formed by combining 'ab,' meaning 'away from,' and 'dicare,' meaning 'to proclaim' or 'to declare.' In Latin, 'abdicate' was used to describe the act of formally renouncing or giving up a position of power or responsibility, such as a throne or an office, often by making a public declaration. As the term was adopted into English, it retained this essential meaning, emphasizing the action of voluntarily relinquishing authority or stepping down from a position of leadership. The etymology of 'abdicate' underscores the concept of making a formal declaration of renunciation, highlighting the voluntary nature of relinquishing power or responsibility.

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Further usage examples of abdicate

1. He didn't want to abdicate, but circumstances left him no choice.
2. The president's decision to abdicate shocked the nation.
3. The board voted to force the chairman to abdicate his role.
4. The dictator was forced to abdicate power in the face of rebellion.
5. The monarch decided to abdicate in favor of her heir.
6. After years of service, the mayor decided to abdicate the office.
7. The manager chose to abdicate his duties to a capable team.
8. The leader's failure to act caused him to abdicate his position.
9. The general's health deteriorated, leading him to abdicate.
10. The pressure of the role led her to abdicate her responsibilities.
11. The pope's decision to abdicate was unprecedented in modern history.
12. The chairman was asked to abdicate due to a conflict of interest.
13. The monarch's choice to abdicate was met with mixed reactions.
14. The governor decided to abdicate amid a scandal.
15. If the king chooses to abdicate, his son will assume the throne.
16. Rumors are swirling that the CEO will abdicate his position due to the recent scandal.
17. Some believe that when leaders become too entrenched in power, they should abdicate to allow for fresh perspectives.
18. In a surprise move, the queen decided to abdicate, leaving the nation in shock.
19. Following the revolution, the dictator was forced to abdicate his position.
20. The governor may abdicate if the allegations against him are proven true.
21. Pressure is mounting for the chairman to abdicate his role amidst corporate turmoil.
22. She abdicated her role as CEO to focus on her family.
23. When the emperor's health declined, he chose to abdicate to ensure a stable transition of power.
24. The people protested in the streets, demanding that the corrupt leader abdicate immediately.
25. It's rare for a reigning monarch in modern times to abdicate, as it is often seen as a lifetime commitment.
26. The coach was asked to abdicate his position after a series of poor performances by the team.