Renounce
/rɪˈnaʊns/
Definitions
To formally declare one's abandonment of (a claim, right, or possession) or to reject and stop using or enjoying (something).
/rɪˈnaʊns/
To formally give up or reject something.
The athlete renounced his citizenship to compete for another country.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're tired of a club, a job, or an idea. Renouncing is like saying, 'I'm done with this! I quit!' It's a strong way of giving something up officially.
👶 For kids: To say 'I don't want it anymore!'
More Examples
He renounced his previous ways of life and embraced a more spiritual path.
She publicly renounced her membership in the organization.
How It's Used
"The king renounced his claim to the throne."
"She renounced her previous beliefs."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
renounce the world
To reject worldly pursuits or pleasures, often in favor of a religious or ascetic life.
"After years of searching, he decided to renounce the world and become a monk."
From Middle English *renouncen*, from Old French *renoncier*, from Latin *renuntiare* ('to announce again, reject'), from *re-* ('again') + *nuntiare* ('to announce').
Commonly used in historical documents relating to political actions and religious conversions.
Memory tip
Think 're-' (back) and 'nounce' (announce). Announce you're backing out!