abnegation
UK: ˌæbnɪˈɡeɪʃən | US: ˌæbnɪˈɡeɪʃən
n. the act of renouncing or rejecting something, often for moral or spiritual reasons
n. self-denial; the sacrifice of one's own desires or interests
abnegation = ab<away> + neg<deny> + ation<noun suffix>
- ab (Latin origin, meaning "away")
- neg (from Latin negare, meaning "to deny")
- ation (noun-forming suffix indicating an action or process)
Etymology Origin:
The word "abnegation" traces back to Latin abnegatio, combining ab- (away) and negare (to deny). It originally described the act of refusing or rejecting something, later evolving to emphasize self-sacrifice or renunciation, particularly in religious or ethical contexts. The suffix -ation solidifies its role as a noun denoting the process or result of denial.
His life of abnegation included giving up wealth to serve the poor.
Monastic traditions often emphasize abnegation of worldly pleasures.
She practiced abnegation by refusing the promotion to prioritize her family.
The philosopher praised abnegation as a path to inner freedom.
Political leaders sometimes use abnegation to project humility.