Langimage
English

ABS

|A-B-S|

B2

/ˌeɪ.biːˈɛs/

safety system

Etymology
Etymology Information

'ABS' originates from the English language as an acronym for 'Anti-lock Braking System' and 'American Bureau of Shipping'.

Historical Evolution

'ABS' was initially used in the automotive industry to refer to the braking system and in the maritime industry for the classification society.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'Anti-lock Braking System' in the automotive context and 'American Bureau of Shipping' in the maritime context, and these meanings have largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

acronym for 'Anti-lock Braking System', a safety system in vehicles that prevents the wheels from locking up during braking.

The car's ABS helped prevent a skid on the icy road.

Synonyms

Noun 2

acronym for 'American Bureau of Shipping', a classification society, with a mission to promote the security of life, property, and the natural environment, primarily through the development and verification of standards for the design, construction, and operational maintenance of marine-related facilities.

The vessel was certified by the ABS for its safety standards.

Last updated: 2025/07/13 01:04