"abstraction" Definition

Definitions for the word "abstraction" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. a.
The act of abstracting, separating, or withdrawing, or the state of being withdrawn; withdrawal.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. a.
The act process of leaving out of consideration one or more properties of a complex object so as to attend to others; analysis. Thus, when the mind considers the form of a tree by itself, or the color of the leaves as separate from their size or figure, the act is called abstraction. So, also, when it considers whiteness, softness, virtue, existence, as separate from any particular objects.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. a.
An idea or notion of an abstract, or theoretical nature; as, to fight for mere abstractions.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. a.
A separation from worldly objects; a recluse life; as, a hermit's abstraction.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. a.
Absence or absorption of mind; inattention to present objects.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. a.
The taking surreptitiously for one's own use part of the property of another; purloining.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
7. a.
A separation of volatile parts by the act of distillation.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
8. n.
1 abstracting or taking away. 2 abstract or visionary idea. 3 abstract qualities (esp. In art). 4 absent-mindedness.
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "abstraction" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "abstraction" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

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