resignation

noun

res·​ig·​na·​tion ˌre-zig-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce resignation (audio)
1
a
: an act or instance of resigning something : surrender
b
: a formal notification of resigning
2
: the quality or state of being resigned : submissiveness

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.
Such resignation is both understandable and impermissible. David Remnick, New Yorker, 19 Oct. 2025 This is Fortune 500 Power Moves, a column tracking executive shifts—from appointments and promotions to resignations and retirements—within the highest ranks of Fortune 500 companies. Dave Smith, Fortune, 17 Oct. 2025 The nearly $11 million deficit led to major bus route cuts, fare increases, and the resignation of top transit officials. Vanessa Swales, jsonline.com, 17 Oct. 2025 Joan Laporta had returned as president following Josep Maria Bartomeu’s dramatic resignation. Pol Ballús, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Resignation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/resignation. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on resignation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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