1. (noun)abstraction, abstract a concept or idea not associated with any specific instance
"he loved her only in the abstract--not in person"
2. (noun)outline, synopsis, abstract, precis a sketchy summary of the main points of an argument or theory
3. (adj)abstract existing only in the mind; separated from embodiment
"abstract words like `truth' and `justice'"
4. (adj)abstract, abstractionist, nonfigurative, nonobjective not representing or imitating external reality or the objects of nature
"a large abstract painting"
5. (adj)abstract dealing with a subject in the abstract without practical purpose or intention
"abstract reasoning"; "abstract science"
6. (verb)abstract consider a concept without thinking of a specific example; consider abstractly or theoretically
7. (verb)pilfer, cabbage, purloin, pinch, abstract, snarf, swipe, hook, sneak, filch, nobble, lift make off with belongings of others
8. (verb)abstract consider apart from a particular case or instance
"Let's abstract away from this particular example"