DictionaryabolishFormally end
verb

abolish

uh-BAH-lish/əˈbɑːlɪʃ/

To formally put an end to an established law or practice.

The official abolishes the unjust rule by formally marking it repealed.

An official cancels an unjust rule, document stamped exactly 'REPEALED'.
Etymology

Latin abolere meant to destroy or efface; English narrowed this broad idea of making something cease to ending laws, institutions, or practices. The Latin verb’s deeper origin is uncertain.

In context

Sir Manatee15:11
the Baltic mercenaries fearing the ordered dissolution have attempted to abolish the Republic and form a dictatorial government
The Kapp-Lüttwitz Putsch of 1920

More examples

  • The law abolished hereditary privileges.
  • Campaigners demanded that the government abolish slavery.
  • The board is considering abolishing the entrance fee.

Forms

abolish · abolishes · abolished · abolishing

Similar words

repeal
Specifically revokes a law or legislative provision.
eliminate
Removes something without necessarily formal legal action.