relinquish meaning and definition

RELINQUISH verb

Definition of relinquish (verb)

1. part with a possession or right
   • "I am relinquishing my bedroom to the long-term house guest"; "resign a claim to the throne"
   • synonyms: free, give up, release, resign
2. do without or cease to hold or adhere to
   • "We are dispensing with formalities"; "relinquish the old ideas"
   • synonyms: dispense with, forego, foreswear, forgo, waive
3. turn away from; give up
   • "I am foreswearing women forever"
   • synonyms: foreswear, quit, renounce
4. release, as from one's grip
   • "Let go of the door handle, please!"; "relinquish your grip on the rope--you won't fall"
   • synonyms: let go, let go of, release
   • antonym: hold