GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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Found one definition

1.       
   Abridgment , n. [OE. abregement. See Abridge.]
   The act of abridging, or the state of being abridged; diminution; lessening; reduction or deprivation; as, an abridgment of pleasures or of expenses.
   1913 Webster
   An epitome or compend, as of a book; a shortened or abridged form, esp. of a written work; an abbreviation.
   1913 Webster
   Ancient coins as abridgments of history.
   Addison.
   
   1913 Webster
   That which abridges or cuts short; hence, an entertainment that makes the time pass quickly. [Obs.]
   1913 Webster
   What abridgment have you for this evening? What mask? What music?
   Shak.
   
   1913 Webster
   a diminution or curtailment, as of legal rights.
   PJC
   Syn. -- Abridgment, Compendium, Epitome, Abstract, Synopsis.  An abridgment is made by omitting the less important parts of some larger work; as, an abridgment of a dictionary. A compendium is a brief exhibition of a subject, or science, for common use; as, a compendium of American literature. An epitome corresponds to a compendium, and gives briefly the most material points of a subject; as, an epitome of history. An abstract is a brief statement of a thing in its main points. A synopsis is a bird's-eye view of a subject, or work, in its several parts.
   1913 Webster