Definition

A shortened version of a written work that keeps the main ideas and overall meaning of the original text.

Example

The abridgment of the novel made it more accessible to younger readers.

Conversation

Have you read that new abridgment of the classic novel yet?

Not yet, but I heard it's much easier to follow than the original.

Yeah, I think an abridgment can really help when you're short on time.

Exactly! It keeps the main ideas while saving you hours of reading.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Abridgment → It is formed from "ab-" (meaning from) and "ridgere" (from Latin *abridgere*, meaning to shorten). The word refers to a shortened version of a text or work, thus taking something from its original length.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking something from' its original length — 'ab-' means from, and 'ridgere' means to shorten.

Visually Confused Words