Abandoned
/əˈbændənd/
Definitions
2 meaningsto leave or desert something or someone
/əˈbændən/
to leave or desert
The hikers abandoned their campsite to search for help.
💡 Simply: to leave something or someone behind
More Examples
The company abandoned its plans to expand into new markets.
How It's Used
"She abandoned her car on the side of the road."
"The author abandoned his writing career to pursue a life of travel."
left or deserted, often in a state of disrepair
/əˈbændənd/
left or deserted
The abandoned dog wandered the streets alone.
💡 Simply: left or deserted, often rundown
More Examples
The abandoned project was left to gather dust.
How It's Used
"The abandoned house on the hill has been empty for years."
"The abandoned mine is a hazard to the local community."
Idioms & expressions
abandon ship
To leave a situation or project, often in a hurry or due to danger
"The crew had to abandon ship due to the storm."
From Old French 'abandoner', from 'a' (to) and 'bandon' (power, jurisdiction), from 'ban' (proclamation, decree).
The word 'abandon' has been used since the 14th century, initially in the sense of 'to give up or surrender'.
Memory tip
A person leaving a place behind
Practice
Word Origin
Root: bandon