Abject

Definition

Abject is an adjective describing something of the most contemptible kind or a situation experienced to the maximum degree of misery; it can also denote a person’s behavior as completely without pride or dignity.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ˈæb.dʒekt/
• Respelling: AB-jekt

British English

• IPA: /ˈæb.dʒekt/
• Respelling: AB-jekt

Etymology

Late 16th century: from Latin abjectus, past participle of abicere “to cast off,” from ab- “away” + iacere “to throw.”

Derivatives

• abjection (noun)
• abjectly (adverb)
• abjectness (noun)

Synonyms

• wretched
• miserable
• contemptible
• ignoble
• hopeless

Antonyms

• noble
• commendable
• exalted
• admirable
• proud

Usage

The adjective "abject" is used to describe conditions or behaviors that are utterly degraded or experienced to an extreme degree of misery. For example, "They lived in abject poverty," or "He offered an abject apology."

Related Terms

• Degradation: The process of being degraded or brought to a lower condition.
• Humiliation: The state of being made to feel ashamed or foolish.
• Despair: The complete loss or absence of hope.
• Misery: A state of great suffering and unhappiness.
• Submission: The act of yielding to a superior force or authority.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Of the most contemptible kind – utterly despicable or degrading.
  • Example: "The tyrant’s abject cruelty shocked the world."
• Experienced or present to the maximum degree – felt in the most severe or wretched form.
  • Example: "They endured abject poverty for years."
• Completely without pride or dignity – showing humiliating submission.
  • Example: "He made an abject apology for his mistake."