Renunciation

As a Noun

1. The formal rejection or giving up of something, especially a belief, claim, or right.
2. The act of voluntarily relinquishing a position, title, or privilege.
3. In spiritual or religious contexts, the act of giving up worldly pleasures or attachments.

As Other Form

• Renounce (Verb): To formally reject or give up something.
• Renunciatory (Adjective): Relating to the act of renouncing.

Word History

The word renunciation comes from the Latin renuntiatio, meaning “a declaration or giving up,” derived from renuntiare (“to announce back or retract”). It entered English in the late Middle Ages and became associated with legal, religious, and philosophical contexts.

Examples

1. His renunciation of wealth shocked his family.
2. The king’s renunciation of the throne led to a political crisis.
3. Monks practice renunciation of material possessions.
4. Her renunciation of violence inspired many.

Synonyms

Rejection, abandonment, surrender, repudiation, disavowal

Related Words

Sacrifice, resignation, withdrawal, denial, forgoing

Antonyms

Acceptance, embrace, claim, indulgence, assertion