Main Entry: abrupt

Pronunciation: \ə-ˈbrəpt\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Latin abruptus, from past participle of abrumpere to break off, from ab- + rumpere to break — more at reave

Date: 1530

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>

synonyms see precipitate, steep

— abrupt·ly \ə-ˈbrəp(t)-lē\ adverb

— abrupt·ness \ə-ˈbrəp(t)-nəs\ noun