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Revoke

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. To officially cancel or take back something, such as a decision, order, or privilege.
2. To withdraw or rescind an offer, license, or agreement.
3. To invalidate or nullify something previously granted or allowed.

History and Origin

The word “revoke” originates from the Latin revocare, which means “to call back” or “to summon again,” from re- meaning “back” and vocare meaning “to call.” It entered the English language in the 14th century, initially referring to the act of recalling or withdrawing something. Over time, the meaning expanded to include the formal cancellation or rescinding of agreements, privileges, or rights.

Detailed Explanation

“Revoke” refers to the formal or official act of taking back or canceling something. This can apply to a wide range of situations, from revoking a license or privilege to revoking an invitation or contract. It often implies a legal or authoritative decision to annul or invalidate something previously granted. For example, a government may revoke a driver’s license if the driver violates specific laws, or a company may revoke an employee’s access to certain resources due to misconduct.

The term is typically used in formal contexts, such as legal, administrative, or contractual situations, where authority has been exercised to reverse or nullify a previously made decision or allowance.

Example Sentences

1. The company decided to revoke his membership due to repeated violations of the terms.
2. The government can revoke a passport if a person is found guilty of espionage.
3. She was upset when they revoked her invitation to the event.
4. The court ruled to revoke the defendant’s parole after discovering new evidence.
5. The manager revoked the employee’s access to the secure area after the security breach.
6. After the violation of the agreement, the sponsor had no choice but to revoke the contract.
7. The authorities may revoke the permits if the safety guidelines are not followed.
8. He was shocked to learn that his scholarship had been revoked due to poor grades.
9. The bank had to revoke the loan offer after discovering inaccuracies in the application.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Cancel – To invalidate or withdraw something, typically an event, arrangement, or offer.
2. Rescind – To officially revoke or annul a decision or contract.
3. Annul – To declare something legally invalid, especially a decision or law.
4. Withdraw – To take back or remove something that was previously offered or granted.
5. Nullify – To make something legally void or ineffective, often by formal action.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Repeal – The action of revoking or canceling a law or regulation.
2. Terminate – To bring something to an end, especially a contract or agreement.
3. Recession – The act of withdrawing or receding, often used in the context of economic downturns.
4. Forfeit – To lose or give up something as a result of a breach of rules or laws.
5. Disqualify – To declare someone ineligible or unfit, often leading to the removal of rights or privileges.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Resignation – The formal act of stepping down or giving up a position, sometimes in place of revocation.
2. Revocation – The formal process or act of revoking something.
3. Reversal – The act of changing or undoing a decision or action.
4. Retraction – The withdrawal or removal of a statement or claim.
5. Deprivation – The act of denying someone a benefit, often following the revocation of a privilege.

Antonyms

1. Grant
2. Approve
3. Confirm
4. Award
5. Permit