[ab.ject] adj [ME, fr. L abjectus, fr. pp. of abicere to cast off, fr. ab- + jacere to throw--more at jet] (15c) 1: sunk to or existing in a low state or condition "to lowest pitch of ~ fortune thou art fallen --John Milton"
2. a: cast down in spirit: servile, spiritless "a man made ~ by suffering" b: showing utter hopelessness or resignation "~ surrender"
3: expressing or offered in a humble and often ingratiating spirit "~ flattery" "an ~ apology" syn see mean -- ab.ject.ly adv -- ab.ject.ness n