Definitions

abolition

[ab-uh-lish-uhn] / ˌæb əˈlɪʃ ən /

NOUN

formal act of putting an end to, annulling

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abolishment abrogation annulment cancellation destruction dissolution elimination eradication nullification overthrow repeal revocation termination withdrawal

STRONG

annihilation end ending extirpation invalidation negation obliteration repudiation rescission subversion suppression voiding

WEAK

overturning quashing rescinding rescindment wiping out

Antonyms

STRONGEST

approval beginning construction enactment restoration start validation

STRONG

commencement opening

WEAK

confirmation establishment institution legalization promotion

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He pointed to a reduction in the longest NHS waits, the expansion of free childcare and the abolition of peak rail fares as examples of delivery by his government.

From BBC • Mar. 29, 2026

One goal of the Mellon-supported course at Statesville is building a movement that “centers abolition,” meaning the abolition of prisons, according to the proposal I acquired via a records request.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 4, 2026

Students also called for the abolition of ICE and spoke of wanting the school board to rescind what they regard as anti-LGBTQ+ policies.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 16, 2026

Alinejad is one of the most prominent dissident campaigners against Iranian authorities and for years has pushed for the abolition of the obligatory headscarf in Iran under the banner of "MyStealthyFreedom."

From Barron's • Jan. 28, 2026

It urged the Congress to “take such measures in their wisdom, as the powers with which they are invested will authorize, for promoting the abolition of slavery, and discouraging every species of traffic in slaves.”

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis

Vocabulary lists containing abolition

American History I

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

The American Civil War

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!