Definition

To give up or abandon something or someone that you once cared about.

Example

He decided to forsake his old habits and start fresh.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I can't believe she decided to forsake her acting career just like that.

Yeah, it's surprising! I thought she loved it too much.

I guess she felt it was time for a change and wanted something different.

True, sometimes you have to forsake what you love for your own happiness.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Forsake → It is formed from "for-" (meaning away or off) and "sacare" (from Old English *sacian*, meaning to make sacred or to dedicate). The word means to turn away from or to abandon something that was once held sacred or dear.

Memory Tip

Think of turning 'away' ('for-') from something you once 'dedicated' ('sacare') yourself to — that's why forsake means to abandon or give up.

Visually Confused Words