Meaning & use

abdicate

verb·Advanced

To formally give up the throne, a position of power, or a responsibility.

See it in a sentence

The aging king chose to abdicate rather than fight for control of a divided kingdom.

Some critics said the chairman had abdicated his responsibility to shareholders during the crisis.

A note on using this word

Abdicate is typically used for monarchs giving up a throne, or figuratively for someone giving up a duty or authority they hold.

Words with a similar meaning

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