Abstract is a common term that we come across in our daily lives. It is used in various contexts, such as art, science, and literature. However, not everyone may be familiar with the definition and meaning of the term. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the word abstract, exploring its definition, origin, and associations.
Definitions
The term abstract can be defined as a summary or a brief overview of a larger or more complex idea or concept. It is a concise representation of the essential elements of a text, a speech, or a work of art. In art, an abstract is a non-representational artwork that does not depict recognizable objects or figures.
Origin
The word abstract has its roots in the Latin word “abstrahere,” which means to “draw away from.” The term was first used in the 14th century to describe the process of extracting or separating something from its surroundings. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to include the idea of summarizing or distilling information.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, abstract can be defined as “existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “disassociated from any specific instance” or “expressing a quality apart from an object.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “existing as an idea, feeling, or quality, not as a material object.”
Associations
The term abstract is often associated with art, particularly with the abstract art movement that emerged in the early 20th century. It is also associated with scientific research, where abstracts are commonly used to summarize the findings of a study. In literature, abstracts are used to provide a brief overview of a book or article.
Synonyms
Synonyms of abstract include summary, synopsis, outline, digest, and condensation.
Antonyms
Antonyms of abstract include concrete, tangible, specific, and material.
The same root words
Words with the same root as abstract include abstraction, abstracted, and abstractly.
Example Sentences
- The artist’s latest work is an abstract painting that explores the relationship between color and form.
- The abstract of the research paper provides a concise summary of the study’s findings.
- The concept of justice is an abstract idea that has been debated for centuries.
- The teacher asked the students to write an abstract of the article they had read for homework.
- The philosopher argued that the mind is capable of abstract thought and reasoning.