Definition and Etymology of Abject

1. Definition

What is, Concept or Meaning

adj. Abject is an adjective that describes a condition of being miserable, wretched, or degraded. It can also be used to describe a person or thing that is considered to be low, worthless, or contemptible. The noun form of the word is abjection.

Abject comes from the Latin word “jacio,” meaning “to throw.” This is reflected in the word’s meaning, as something that is abject is often seen as having been cast aside or rejected. The word has been in use in the English language since the 16th century.

2. Etymology of abject

The etymology of abject comes from the Latin word “jacere” which means “to throw” which then became “jacio” in Late Latin. The word “abjectus” was formed from the Latin participle “jactus” meaning “thrown away” or “cast out”. This term was used to describe things that are low or worthless, and it is this meaning that has been carried over into the English language. Other words which have the same origin or etymology would be “abjection” and “abjectness”, both also derived from Latin participles.

3. Examples of use

– The refugees lived in abject poverty, with little food or shelter.
– The prisoner’s treatment was so inhumane that it reduced him to an abject state.
– The political candidate’s lack of integrity was evident in his abject dishonesty during the campaign.

4. Uses and Applications

Abject is commonly used in the fields of literature, psychology, and social sciences. This word can describe both internal and external conditions of being miserable, degraded, and low. In literature, the word can be used to describe characters and settings that convey a sense of hopelessness and despair. In psychology, it can describe a state of mind characterized by low self-esteem, depression, and feelings of worthlessness. In social sciences, it can describe socio-economic conditions such as poverty, discrimination, and injustice.

Bibliography ►