adj.
Pronunciation: ' ab- ˌ jekt
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Latin abjectus, from past participle of abicere to cast off, from ab- + jacere to throw ― more at JET
Date: 15th century
1 : sunk to or existing in a low state or condition <to lowest pitch of abject fortune thou art fallen ― John Milton>
2 a : cast down in spirit : SERVILE , SPIRITLESS <a man made abject by suffering> b : showing hopelessness or resignation < abject surrender>
3 : expressing or offered in a humble and often ingratiating spirit < abject flattery> <an abject apology>
synonyms see MEAN
– ab · ject · ly \ ' ab- ˌ jek(t)-l ē , ab- ' \ adverb
– ab · ject · ness \ - ˌ jek(t)-n ə s, - ' jek(t)- \ noun