abstract — existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈæbstrækt/
Example Sentences
- My math teacher's explanations are so abstract that I feel like I'm trying to hug a cloud.
- The artist painted abstract shapes that looked like my room after a tornado.
- The conference abstract must clearly outline the research methodology and findings.
abstract
ADJECTIVE[/ˈæbstrækt/]
existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence

Existing as an idea rather than a physical or concrete thing.

Abs on a tract-or, both transparent - abstract ideas float around!

Abstract thoughts contract and attract!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'abstractus', the past participle of 'abstrahere', meaning 'to draw away' or 'to separate'. The word combines the prefix 'ab-' (away) with 'trahere' (to draw or pull).
Breakdown
ab- (away) + tract (draw, pull) + -us (Latin past participle suffix) = abstract (drawn away, separated from concrete reality)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
“Picasso was famous for his abstract art.”
“Justice is an abstract concept that varies across cultures.”
“The research abstract should be under 300 words.”
“Abstract thinking develops during adolescence.”
“Programmers abstract away complex details.”
📝Examples
“My math teacher's explanations are so abstract that I feel like I'm trying to hug a cloud.”
“The artist painted abstract shapes that looked like my room after a tornado.”
“The conference abstract must clearly outline the research methodology and findings.”
“Children find it difficult to understand abstract mathematical concepts like infinity.”
“The philosopher tried to abstract universal truths from human experience.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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