# abjectly

/ˈæbdʒɛktli/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abjectly
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

in a way that shows you are completely defeated or have no pride. You use this when someone is so ashamed or weak that they cannot stand up for themselves.

For teachers: in a manner that shows extreme humiliation, defeat, or lack of pride. Often describes a state of total submission or a failure to maintain dignity.

## Examples

- He abjectly apologized for his mistake.
- The defeated general abjectly surrendered his sword to the victorious king.
- The politician abjectly admitted his errors during the press conference, though many critics felt his public humiliation was unnecessary and overly harsh.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.