# capitulation

/kəˌpɪtʃəˈɫeɪʃən/ (US) · /kɐpˈɪtʃʊlˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/capitulation
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

the act of giving up or surrendering to someone who has more power. It usually happens when you cannot fight back anymore and have to accept their rules.

For teachers: the act of surrendering to an enemy or an opposing force, typically after a period of resistance. Often implies a formal or complete submission to a superior authority.

## Examples

- The city's capitulation ended the long war.
- After weeks of intense negotiations, the small company's capitulation to the larger firm was inevitable.
- The general's capitulation was not a sign of weakness but a calculated move to preserve the lives of his remaining soldiers during the final siege.

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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.