abridgment

Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary

Contents 1 English 1.1 Etymology 1.2 Noun 1.2.1 Synonyms 1.2.2 Translations

[edit] English

[edit] Etymology

Middle English abregement < Middle French see abridge.

[edit] Noun

abridgment (plural abridgments)

1. The act of abridging, or the state of being abridged; diminution; lessening; reduction or deprivation; as, an abridgment of pleasures or of expenses.
2. An epitome or compend, as of a book; a shortened or abridged form; an abbreviation.

   • Ancient coins as abridgments of history. - Joseph Addison

3. (obsolete) That which abridges or cuts short; hence, an entertainment that makes the time pass quickly

   • What abridgment have you for this evening? What masque? what music? - Shakespeare, Midsummer Night's Dream, V-i

[edit] Synonyms

• compendium, epitome, abstract, synopsis, précis
• An abridgment is made by omitting the less important parts of some larger work; as, an abridgment of a dictionary.
• A compendium is a brief exhibition of a subject, or science, for common use; as, a compendium of American literature.
• An epitome corresponds to a compendium, and gives briefly the most material points of a subject; as, an epitome of history.
• An abstract is a brief statement of a thing in its main points.
• A synopsis is a bird's-eye view of a subject, or work, in its several parts.

[edit] Translations

• Dutch: 1. bekorting, verkorting. 2. ingekorte versie, uitreksel, korte inhoud.