Definition

To make something no longer valid or to cancel it completely, such as a law or a marriage.

Example

The court decided to annul the marriage due to lack of consent.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear that they want to annul that law about public smoking?

Really? I thought it was pretty effective in reducing smoking rates.

Yeah, but some people argue it should be annulled for personal freedom.

I guess every rule has its supporters and opponents.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Annul → It is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "nullus" (meaning none or not any). The word "annul" means to declare something as having no legal effect or to make it void, effectively reducing it to nothing.

Memory Tip

Think of making something have 'no' effect ('nullus') — that's why to annul means to make it void.

Visually Confused Words