abstract definition

1. a concept or idea not associated with any specific instance
• examples: he loved her only in the abstract--not in person
2. consider a concept without thinking of a specific example; consider abstractly or theoretically
3. consider apart from a particular case or instance
• examples: Let's abstract away from this particular example
4. give an abstract (of)
5. existing only in the mind; separated from embodiment
• examples: abstract words like `truth' and `justice'
6. not representing or imitating external reality or the objects of nature
• examples: a large abstract painting
7. dealing with a subject in the abstract without practical purpose or intention
• examples: abstract reasoning
• examples: abstract science