forsake
UK: fəˈseɪk | US: fɔːrˈseɪk
vt. to abandon or renounce (someone or something) entirely
vt. to give up (a habit, belief, or way of life)
The word "forsake" originates from Old English forsacan, combining for- (intensifying prefix meaning "completely") and sacan ("to strive, dispute, refuse"). Over time, sacan evolved into "sake," while for- retained its emphatic role. The original sense of "actively reject" shifted to "abandon definitively," reflecting a stronger, more permanent separation.
He vowed never to forsake his principles.
The villagers were forced to forsake their homes during the flood.
She forsook her career to care for her family.
Ancient traditions are often forsaken in modern societies.
The soldier refused to forsake his comrades in battle.