abbreviature
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1 shortened word (n.) C2 Proficiency Archaica short form of a word or phrase.
A shortened form of a word or phrase used to represent the whole; a synonym for abbreviation.
ExampleThe old manuscript used a strange abbreviature for the king's name.
ExampleThe scribe employed a specific abbreviature to save space on the expensive vellum, a practice common in medieval legal documents.
UsageUsed as a countable noun in this sense.
Teacher's tipModern speakers should use 'abbreviation' instead; this term is found almost exclusively in historical or linguistic contexts.
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2 summary or abridgment (n.) C2 Proficiency Archaica short version of a longer book or piece of writing.
A condensed version or abstract of a larger work; an abridgment.
ExampleHe read a brief abbreviature of the long history book.
ExampleThe scholar provided an abbreviature of the primary findings to ensure the council could review the essential points quickly.
UsageCan be used as both a countable and uncountable noun.
Teacher's tipIn modern English, 'summary' or 'abstract' is preferred for academic work, while 'abridgment' is used for books.
From Medieval Latin abbreviātūra, from Late Latin abbreviō (“shorten, abbreviate”). See also abbreviate.