resignation

noun

res·​ig·​na·​tion ˌre-zig-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce resignation (audio)
Synonyms of resignation
1
a
: an act or instance of resigning something : surrender
The Board accepted the CEO's resignation.
b
: a formal notification of resigning
I turned in my resignation.
2
: the quality or state of being resigned : submissiveness
accepted the news with resignation

Examples of resignation in a Sentence

The chairman accepted their resignations. The manager received resignations from three members of the staff. We accepted the news with resignation.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Deputy Chief Andre Sayles was named interim police chief, the statement about the resignation said. — Joe Kottke, NBC news, 31 July 2026 The allegations come amid Miller’s reelection bid for what is seen as a safe Republican seat and have led to calls from some Democratic members of Congress for an ethics investigation and resignation. — Diana Paulsen, ABC News, 31 July 2026 Lowder submitted his resignation to the board Thursday after The Charlotte Observer first reported on the post Tuesday afternoon. — Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 31 July 2026 In January of 2026, DOLA received letters of resignation from each of the town's then-Trustees. — Greg Norman-Diamond, FOXNews.com, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for resignation

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of resignation was in the 14th century

Rhymes for resignation

See All Rhymes for resignation

Browse Nearby Words

resignatary
resignation
resignation bond
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Resignation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/resignation. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

resignation

noun
res·​ig·​na·​tion ˌrez-ig-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce resignation (audio)
1
a
: an act of resigning
b
: a formal notice of this act
2
: the quality or the feeling of a person who is resigned

More from Merriam-Webster on resignation

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for resignation

Nglish: Translation of resignation for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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