the action whereby a magistrate, or person in office, renounces and gives up the same before the term of service is expired.

This word is frequently confounded with resignation; but differs from it, in that abdication is done purely and simply, whereas resignation is in favour of some third person. It is said to be a renunciation, quitting, and relinquishing, so as to have nothing further to do with a thing; or the doing of such actions as are inconsistent with the holding of it. On king James's leaving the kingdom, and abdicating the government, the lords would have had the word deposition made use of; but the commons thought it was not comprehensive enough, for that the king might then have liberty of returning.