renounces; renounced; renouncing
1
: to say especially in a formal or official way that you will no longer have or accept (something) : to formally give up (something)
The king renounced [=abdicated] the throne.
She renounced her inheritance.
We will not deal with them until they renounce (the use of) violence/terrorism.
2
: to say in a formal or definite way that you refuse to follow, obey, or support (someone or something) any longer
Many of his former supporters have renounced him.
He renounced his old way of life.
psychiatrists who renounce [=reject] the teachings of Freud
Cite this Entry
“Renounce.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/renounce. Accessed 22 Apr. 2026.
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