ABC
- 01
n.the letters of a language, usually the English alphabet from A to Z.
n.the English alphabet in its entirety. Often used in the plural as 'ABCs' in informal contexts.
Simple“The toddler is already starting to learn her ABCs by singing the song.”
In context“The toddler is already starting to learn her ABCs by singing the song.”
- 02
n.the simplest and most important facts about a subject.
n.the fundamental principles or rudimentary elements of a particular subject or activity.
Simple“You need to master the ABC of nutrition before you start a strict diet.”
In context“You need to master the ABC of nutrition before you start a strict diet.”
- 03
n.a major television or radio network, such as those in the US or Australia.
n.a proper noun referring to major national broadcasters, most notably the American Broadcasting Company or the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
Simple“The news report was first aired on ABC during the evening slot.”
In context“The news report was first aired on ABC during the evening slot.”
- 04
n.the first three things doctors check: airway, breathing, and circulation.
n.a mnemonic for airway, breathing, and circulation, representing the primary survey in emergency medicine.
Simple“The paramedic followed the ABC protocol to ensure the patient was stable.”
In context“The paramedic followed the ABC protocol to ensure the patient was stable.”
- 05
adj.related to atomic, biological, or chemical weapons.
adj.pertaining to atomic, biological, and chemical warfare or weaponry. Often used as an attributive modifier.
Simple“The soldiers were trained to handle an ABC attack during their basic training.”
In context“The soldiers were trained to handle an ABC attack during their basic training.”
From Middle English abece, ABC, from the first three letters of the Latin alphabet, standing for the whole alphabet.
Initialisms.
Like QWERTY, the name is based on the first letter keys.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.