abstentions
|ab-stent-ions|
C1
/æbˈstɛnʃənz/
(abstention)
refraining from action
Etymology
Etymology Information
'abstention' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'abstentio,' where 'ab-' meant 'away from' and 'tenere' meant 'to hold.'
Historical Evolution
'abstentio' transformed into the Old French word 'abstention,' and eventually became the modern English word 'abstention' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to hold oneself back,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'refraining from voting.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of refraining from casting a vote.
There were 10 votes in favor, 5 against, and 3 abstentions.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/04/08 11:21