Characters remaining: 500/500
Translation

Also found in: English - Vietnamese

disown

/dis'oun/
Academic
Friendly
Explanation of "Disown"

Definition:
The verb "disown" means to refuse to acknowledge or maintain a relationship with someone. This often happens when a person no longer wants to accept a family member, like a child or spouse.

Advanced Usage

In more advanced contexts, "disown" can be used in legal terms, such as in inheritance cases. For example, a parent might disown a child in a will, meaning the child will not receive any inheritance.

Word Variants
  • Disowning (noun): The act of disowning someone.
  • Disowned (adjective): Describing someone who has been disowned.
Different Meanings

Besides relationships, "disown" can also mean to reject or deny responsibility for something.

Synonyms
  • Reject
  • Renounce
  • Abandon
  • Repudiate
  • Cast off
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

While "disown" itself is not commonly used in idioms or phrasal verbs, you might hear phrases like: - "Cut ties": This means to end a relationship completely, similar to disowning someone. - "Wash one's hands of": This means to refuse to be involved with someone or something anymore.

Summary

"Disown" is a strong word that indicates a complete break in a relationship or responsibility. It is used in both personal and legal contexts and can have significant emotional implications.

Verb
  1. cast off
    • She renounced her husband
    • The parents repudiated their son
  2. prevent deliberately (as by making a will) from inheriting

Comments and discussion on the word "disown"