abridge

American  

[uh-brij] / əˈbrɪdʒ /

verb (used with object)

abridged, abridging

1. to shorten by omissions while retaining the basic contents.

   to abridge a reference book.

   Synonyms:

   epitomize, summarize, digest, abstract, condense

   Antonyms:

   lengthen

2. to reduce or lessen in duration, scope, authority, etc.; diminish; curtail: to abridge one's freedom.

   to abridge a visit;

   to abridge one's freedom.

   Synonyms:

   reduce, contract

   Antonyms:

   expand

3. to deprive; cut off.

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abridge British  

/ əˈbrɪdʒ /

verb

1. to reduce the length of (a written work) by condensing or rewriting

2. to curtail; diminish

3. archaic to deprive of (privileges, rights, etc)

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Related Words

See shorten.

Other Word Forms

• abridgable adjective
• abridgeable adjective
• abridger noun
• nonabridgable adjective
• reabridge verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of abridge

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English abreggen, abriggen, from Middle French abreg(i)er, from Late Latin abbreviāre “to shorten”; a- ⁴, abbreviate

Example Sentences

Of course, the Constitution contemplates that democracy is the appropriate process for change, so long as that process does not abridge fundamental rights .

From Salon • Sep. 10, 2025

In televised remarks before the cabinet session, Netanyahu said it was "unthinkable" that the government would abridge the right to demonstrate or support any violence against protesters.

From Reuters • Jul. 9, 2023

Still, they raise antibody levels overall, and should help stave off severe symptoms and abridge the duration of illness, said Aubree Gordon, an epidemiologist at the University of Michigan.

From New York Times • Oct. 23, 2022

Not even the Legislature could exercise its powers to extend immunity and abridge causes of action in these circumstances.

From Slate • Apr. 15, 2020

“Listen, you guys published a book just after World War I. Do you think it might be a good idea for me to abridge it and we’d republish it now?”

From "The Princess Bride" by William Goldman

Related Words

• abbreviate
• curtail
• truncate