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Dictionary definition of surrender

To yield, give up, or relinquish control or possession of something or oneself, typically in response to a superior force, authority, or circumstance.
"The defeated army was forced to surrender and lay down their weapons."

Detailed meaning of surrender

It entails accepting defeat, acknowledging the inability to resist or continue a struggle, and submitting to the will or power of another. Surrender can involve physical actions, such as laying down weapons or ceasing resistance in a conflict, or it can be symbolic, representing a willingness to let go, concede, or comply with a demand, request, or situation. When someone surrenders, they abandon their own agenda or desires and submit to the control or influence of others. It can also imply an act of trust or acceptance, allowing oneself to be vulnerable or dependent on someone or something else. Surrendering often requires courage, humility, and a recognition of one's limitations or the futility of resistance.

Example sentences of surrender

1. He refused to surrender his principles in the face of opposition.
2. The soldier chose to surrender rather than risk further casualties.
3. The criminal was given an ultimatum to surrender or face severe consequences.
4. She decided to surrender her ego and apologize for her actions.
5. The boxer refused to surrender despite being injured.
6. The rebel leader urged his followers to surrender and seek amnesty.

History and etymology of surrender

The verb 'surrender' has its roots in Middle English and Old French, ultimately tracing back to the Latin word 'surrēndere.' This Latin term combines 'sub,' meaning 'under,' and 'rendere,' meaning 'to deliver' or 'to give back.' Therefore, the etymology of 'surrender' subtly reflects the act of giving back or delivering oneself or something else under the control or authority of another, typically in response to a superior force, authority, or circumstance. It implies a voluntary yielding or relinquishing without explicitly addressing its specific definition, aligning with its modern-day usage related to the act of yielding or giving up control or possession in various contexts.

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Further usage examples of surrender

1. The enemy forces were forced to surrender after a long and intense battle.
2. The suspect was surrounded by police and ordered to surrender.
3. The general issued an order to surrender to prevent further bloodshed.
4. The pirate captain decided to surrender and negotiate for his crew's safety.
5. The fugitive knew it was only a matter of time before he would have to surrender.
6. The hostage taker finally agreed to surrender after hours of negotiation.
7. The defeated army had no choice but to surrender their weapons.
8. The criminal was given the opportunity to surrender peacefully.
9. The rebel group declared their intention to surrender and join the peace process.
10. The hunted animal knew it was cornered and had to surrender.
11. The suspect attempted to flee but was quickly apprehended and forced to surrender.
12. The captured spy had no choice but to surrender valuable information.
13. The protesters refused to surrender their demands until their voices were heard.
14. They didn't want to fight; they chose to surrender.
15. Faced with the evidence, he will likely surrender.
16. Soldiers, surrounded, had no choice but to surrender.
17. In chess, a poor position often means you’ll surrender.
18. Without power, the city may soon surrender, helpless.
19. Cornered, the fugitive had one option: to surrender.
20. To avoid bloodshed, sometimes it's best to surrender.
21. Outnumbered, the rebels opted to surrender, defeated.
22. The king knew he had to surrender or face death.
23. Alone against many, a wise warrior might surrender.
24. With no escape, to surrender was the captain's choice.