abrupt

One entry found for abrupt.

Main Entry: abrupt
Pronunciation: &-'br&pt
Function: adjective
Etymology: Latin abruptus, from past participle of abrumpere to break off, from ab- + rumpere to break -- more at REAVE
1 a : characterized by or involving action or change without preparation or warning : UNEXPECTED <came to an abrupt stop> <an abrupt turn> <an abrupt decision to retire> b : unceremoniously curt <an abrupt manner> c : lacking smoothness or continuity <an abrupt transition>
2 : giving the impression of being cut or broken off; especially : involving a sudden steep rise or drop <abrupt hills> <a high abrupt bank bounded the stream>
synonym see PRECIPITATE, STEEP
- abrupt·ly /&-'br&p(t)-lE/ adverb
- abrupt·ness /&-'br&p(t)-n&s/ noun