resignation

noun

res·​ig·​na·​tion ˌre-zig-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce resignation (audio)
Synonyms of resignation
1
a
: an act or instance of resigning something : surrender
The Board accepted the CEO's resignation.
b
: a formal notification of resigning
I turned in my resignation.
2
: the quality or state of being resigned : submissiveness
accepted the news with resignation

Examples of resignation in a Sentence

The chairman accepted their resignations. The manager received resignations from three members of the staff. We accepted the news with resignation.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Three dozen Democratic senators demanded Franken’s resignation from the Senate. Clarence Page, Chicago Tribune, 15 June 2026 There was no attempt from the leadership to discuss her resignation, Settles-Tidwell states in her suit. Tarini Mehta, Sacbee.com, 15 June 2026 The interception of the Smyrtos occurred just days after the PM appointed a new Defense Secretary, Dan Jarvis, following the resignation of John Healey from Starmer’s fragile government in a dispute over military budgets. Tim Lister, CNN Money, 14 June 2026 On June 10, as the Knicks made history with a 29-point comeback win over the Spurs in Game 4, the YouTube show provided a memorable snapshot, swinging from resignation at halftime to jubilation after the victory. Dade Hayes, Deadline, 13 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for resignation

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of resignation was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Resignation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/resignation. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

resignation

noun
res·​ig·​na·​tion ˌrez-ig-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce resignation (audio)
1
a
: an act of resigning
b
: a formal notice of this act
2
: the quality or the feeling of a person who is resigned

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