Definition of abide

< abidance

abiding >

a·bide    (-bd) KEY 

VERB:
a·bode  (-bd) KEY  or a·bid·ed, a·bid·ing, a·bides
VERB:
tr.

1. To put up with; tolerate: can't abide such incompetence. See Synonyms at bear¹.
2. To wait patiently for: "I will abide the coming of my lord" (Tennyson).
3. To withstand: a thermoplastic that will abide rough use and great heat.

VERB:
intr.

1. To remain in a place.
2. To continue to be sure or firm; endure. See Synonyms at stay¹.
3. To dwell or sojourn.

IDIOM:
abide by

To conform to; comply with: abide by the rules; had to abide by the judge's decision.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English abiden, from Old English bdan : -, intensive pref. + bdan, to remain; see bheidh- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
a·bider(Noun)