cancellation

noun

can·​cel·​la·​tion ˌkan(t)-sə-ˈlā-shən 

variants or less commonly cancelation

1

: the act or an instance of canceling

The cancellation of the game was due to bad weather.

2

: something (such as a hotel room or a ticket) made available by the canceling of an arrangement

was lucky to get a cancellation for the trip to Chicago

3

: a mark made to cancel something (such as a postage stamp)

Synonyms

• abandonment
• revocation
• rescission
• abortion
• termination
• recall
• repeal
• calling

Examples of cancellation in a Sentence

The storm caused delays and flight cancellations.

Notice of cancellation should be given 30 days in advance.

There is a fee for cancellation.

Cancellations increased when rates doubled.

Recent Examples on the Web

Then again, ticket refunds for cancellations are quick and automatic these days. —Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 23 Oct. 2025

The federal government will also have to file six monthly progress reports to update the court on the status of its application and loan cancellation processing. —Chantelle Lee, Time, 22 Oct. 2025

The rapper canceled a few shows in Atlanta and Detroit, and no explanation was given for any of the cancellations. —Mackenzie Cummings-Grady, Billboard, 22 Oct. 2025

Following his talk show’s near cancellation last month, Jimmy Kimmel revealed how Jon Stewart nearly landed his hosting gig. —Glenn Garner, Deadline, 22 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

see cancel entry 1

First Known Use

1535, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for cancellation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

cancellation

noun

can·​cel·​la·​tion ˌkan(t)-sə-ˈlā-shən 

1

: an act of canceling

2

: a mark made to cancel something

Legal Definition

cancellation

noun

can·​cel·​la·​tion

variants also cancelation

1

: the act or an instance of cancelling

2

: a mark made to cancel something (as a check)