Definition

A shortened version of something, such as a book or text, that keeps the main ideas but removes some details.

Example

The abridgement of the novel made it easier for students to read in a shorter time.

Conversation

Have you read the abridgement of that classic novel yet?

Not yet, but I've heard it's a lot easier to get through than the original.

Yeah, I think an abridgement really helps with the long descriptions.

Definitely! It makes it more accessible for casual readers.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Abridgement → It is formed from "ab-" (meaning from) and "ridgere" (from Latin "ad-" meaning to and "brevis" meaning short). The word refers to a version of a text that is shortened or condensed from the original.

Memory Tip

Think of 'shortening' something ('ab-' means from and 'brevis' means short) — that's why an abridgement is a shortened version of a text.

Visually Confused Words