abstract
1. [ adjective ] existing only in the mind; separated from embodiment
Examples:

"abstract words like `truth' and `justice'"

Related terms: concrete ideal conceptual conceptional intangible nonrepresentational abstractness
2. [ verb ] consider a concept without thinking of a specific example; consider abstractly or theoretically
Related terms: see abstraction
3. [ noun ] a concept or idea not associated with any specific instance
Synonyms: abstraction
Examples:

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

Related terms: concept thing right teacher absolute
4. [ adjective ] not representing or imitating external reality or the objects of nature
Synonyms: nonfigurative nonobjective abstractionist
Examples:

"a large abstract painting"

Related terms: nonrepresentational
5. [ verb ] consider apart from a particular case or instance
Examples:

"Let's abstract away from this particular example"

Related terms: consider abstraction
6. [ adjective ] based on specialized theory;
Synonyms: theoretical
Examples:

"a theoretical analysis"

Related terms: technical
7. [ verb ] (criminal law) make off with belongings of others
Synonyms: pilfer purloin lift sneak snarf pinch hook filch nobble swipe cabbage
Related terms: steal booster pilferage
8. [ adjective ] dealing with a subject in the abstract without practical purpose or intention
Examples:

"abstract reasoning" "abstract science"

Related terms: theoretical
9. [ verb ] give an abstract (of)
Related terms: sum_up abstractor
10. [ noun ] (writing) a sketchy summary of the main points of an argument or theory
Synonyms: outline precis synopsis
Related terms: summary brief apercu epitome precis
Similar spelling:   abstractor
  abstractly
  abstracter
  abstracted
  abstractive
  abstraction
  Abasta
  abstrusity
  abactinal
  Abston
  abstain
  abstruse