abstract

adjective

1. existing only in the mind; separated from embodiment

- abstract words like `truth' and `justice'

Similar word(s): conceptional, ideational, notional, conceptual, ideal, ideologic, ideological, nonrepresentational, impalpable, intangible

2. not representing or imitating external reality or the objects of nature

- a large abstract painting

Similar word(s): nonrepresentational, abstractionist, nonfigurative, nonobjective

3. dealing with a subject in the abstract without practical purpose or intention

- abstract reasoning

- abstract science

Similar word(s): theoretical

noun

1. a concept or idea not associated with any specific instance

- he loved her only in the abstract--not in person

Similar word(s): abstraction

Definition categories: thought, concept, conception, construct

2. a sketchy summary of the main points of an argument or theory

Similar word(s): outline, precis, synopsis

Definition categories: communication, summary

verb

1. consider a concept without thinking of a specific example; consider abstractly or theoretically

Definition categories: cognition, consider, reckon, regard, see, view

2. make off with belongings of others

Similar word(s): cabbage, filch, hook, lift, nobble, pilfer, pinch, purloin, snarf, sneak, swipe

Definition categories: possession, rip, steal

3. consider apart from a particular case or instance

- Let's abstract away from this particular example

Definition categories: cognition, consider, deal, take

4. give an abstract (of)

Definition categories: communication, resume, summarise, summarize