abstraction
uhb-STRAK-shn
Abstraction (noun) means the process of considering an idea or quality separately from any specific object. Example: “Mathematics relies heavily on abstraction to generalize patterns.”
noun
1
The process of considering an idea or quality separately from any specific object.
"Mathematics relies heavily on abstraction to generalize patterns."
2
A general idea or concept, as opposed to something concrete.
"Freedom can feel like a vague abstraction until it's taken away."
3
In computing, the hiding of implementation detail behind a simpler interface.
"Good software design uses abstraction to keep complex code manageable."
How to use abstraction
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA general idea separated from any one specific example — or, in tech, hiding complexity behind a simple interface.
Common pairings
level of abstraction
a useful abstraction
layer of abstraction
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like abstraction.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- abstractions
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Mathematics relies heavily on _____ to generalize patterns.
Etymology
From Middle French abstraction or Medieval Latin abstractio, "a separation," based on Latin abstraho, "to draw away."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for abstraction
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for abstraction →
Frequently asked questions
What does “abstraction” mean?
The word “abstraction” means the process of considering an idea or quality separately from any specific object. In plain terms, a general idea separated from any one specific example — or, in tech, hiding complexity behind a simple interface.
How do you pronounce “abstraction”?
“Abstraction” is pronounced uhb-STRAK-shn (/æbˈstɹæk.ʃn̩/ in IPA).
How do you use “abstraction” in a sentence?
Here is “abstraction” used in a sentence: “Mathematics relies heavily on abstraction to generalize patterns.”
What is the opposite of “abstraction”?
The opposite of “abstraction” — its antonyms — are specialization and concretization.
What part of speech is “abstraction”?
“Abstraction” is a noun.
Where does the word “abstraction” come from?
The word “abstraction” comes from Medieval Latin. From Middle French abstraction or Medieval Latin abstractio, "a separation," based on Latin abstraho, "to draw away.".
Is “abstraction” a common word?
“Abstraction” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “abstraction” have?
“Abstraction” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the process of considering an idea or quality separately from any specific object.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include abstraction:
