Definition of cancel

< cancan

cancelation >

can·cel    (knsl) KEY 

VERB:
can·celed, also can·celled can·cel·ing, can·cel·ling can·cels, can·cels
VERB:
tr.

1. To cross out with lines or other markings. See Synonyms at erase.
2. To annul or invalidate.
3. To mark or perforate (a postage stamp or check, for example) to indicate that it may not be used again.
4. To equalize or make up for; offset: Today's decline in stock price canceled out yesterday's gain.
5. Mathematics
   1. To remove (a common factor) from the numerator and denominator of a fractional expression.
   2. To remove (a common factor or term) from both sides of an equation or inequality.
6. Printing To omit or delete.

VERB:
intr.

To neutralize one another; counterbalance: two opposing forces that canceled out.

NOUN:

1. The act or an instance of canceling; a cancellation.
2. Printing
   1. Deletion of typed or printed matter.
   2. The matter deleted.
   3. A replacement for deleted matter.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English cancellen, from Old French canceller, from Latin cancellre, to cross out, from cancellus, lattice, diminutive of cancer, lattice

OTHER FORMS:
cancel·a·ble(Adjective), cancel·er(Noun)