annul

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verb an·nul \É™-ˈnÉ™l\

: to say officially that something is no longer valid : to make (something) legally void

an·nulledan·nul·ling

Full Definition of ANNUL

transitive verb

1

:  to reduce to nothing :  obliterate

2

:  to make ineffective or inoperative :  neutralize <annul the drug's effect>

3

:  to declare or make legally invalid or void <wants the marriage annulled>

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Examples of ANNUL

1. <unfortunately, his arrogant attitude annuls the many generous favors he does for people>
2. <plans to annul their short-lived, ill-advised marriage>

Origin of ANNUL

Middle English annullen, from Anglo-French annuller, from Late Latin annullare, from Latin ad- + nullus not any — more at null

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to ANNUL

Synonyms

offset, cancel (out), compensate (for), correct, counteract, counterbalance, counterpoise, make up (for), negative, neutralize

Related Words

invalidate, negate, neuter, nullify; atone (for); outbalance, outweigh, redeem; redress, relieve, remedy; override, overrule

Near Antonyms

enact, lay down, legislate; establish, found, institute; formalize, legalize, legitimate, legitimize, validate; pass, ratify; allow, approve, authorize, clear, endorse (also indorse), permit, sanction, warrant; command, decree, mandate, order, prescribe

See Synonym Discussion at nullify

Rhymes with ANNUL

mogul, numskull, pas seul, seagull