Definition

This word describes something that has been shortened or reduced in length, particularly in reference to written works like books or articles.

Example

The abridged version of the novel made it easier to read in a shorter time.

Conversation

Have you read that new version of the classic novel?

Not yet, but I heard it’s an abridged edition.

Yeah, I wonder how much they actually cut from it.

I hope they didn’t remove anything important!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make something shorter by removing parts, while keeping the main ideas or information.

Example

The novel was abridged for younger readers to make it more accessible.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you manage to finish that book I lent you?

Yeah, I abridged it since it was so long.

That's a smart idea! How did it turn out?

Root Explanation

Abridged → It is formed from "ab-" (meaning from or away) and "ridgere" (from Latin "radere", meaning to scrape). The word "abridged" means to have been scraped away or shortened, particularly in reference to a text that has been condensed.

Memory Tip

Think of 'scraping away' ('ab-' means from or away, and 'radere' means to scrape) to remember that 'abridged' refers to something that has been shortened or condensed.

Visually Confused Words