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