adjective / noun
abstract
AB-strakt/ˈæbstrækt/
Representing ideas apart from concrete, recognizable objects.
The diagram reduces round objects to the abstract idea of a circle.
Etymology
The underlying image is something drawn away. An abstract idea is considered apart from material objects or particular instances, shifting that image of separation into the realm of thought.
In context
a picture is worth more than a thousand words when you're trying to communicate numbers, abstract concepts like lux, the international measurement of illumination
More examples
- Justice is an abstract concept.
- Her abstract paintings explore color without depicting recognizable objects.
- A colorful abstract hangs above the sofa.
Forms
abstract · abstracts
Similar words
- conceptual
- Emphasizes ideas or planning rather than physical realization.
- theoretical
- May relate to a theory rather than general ideas.