abdicate
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈæb.dɪ.keɪt/
KK: /æbˈdɪkeɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To give up a position of power or responsibility, especially a throne or leadership role, in a formal way.
Example
The king decided to abdicate the throne in favor of his son.
Tense Forms
Past: abdicated
Past Participle: abdicated
Conversation
Did you hear that the king decided to abdicate the throne?
Yeah, it's surprising! I wonder what led to that decision.
I know, right? It's such a big change for the country.
Absolutely, I hope they have a good plan in place for the future.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
resign
relinquish
yield
Antonyms
retain
claim
assume
transitive verb
Definition
To give up or formally resign from a position of power or responsibility.
Example
The king decided to abdicate the throne in favor of his son.
Tense Forms
Past: abdicated
Past Participle: abdicated
Conversation
Did you hear that the king plans to abdicate the throne soon?
Really? I didn't think he would ever do that.
Yeah, it seems he wants to focus on his family instead.
Root Explanation
Abdicate → It is formed from "ab-" (meaning away) and "dicare" (meaning to proclaim or declare). The word describes the act of formally declaring oneself away from a position of power or responsibility.
Memory Tip
Think of someone 'declaring' ('dicare') that they are 'away' ('ab-') from their duties — that's why abdicate means to give up a position.
Visually Confused Words
abjudicate
radicate
adiate
radicated
fabricate
eradicate
radiate
labiate