Disown

To refuse to acknowledge or accept as one's own; to cast off or repudiate someone, often a family member, property, or idea. This action implies a formal rejection and severance of ties, responsibilities, or associations. Disowning can be driven by various factors, including moral disapproval, behavioral issues, financial disagreements, ideological differences, or simply a loss of affection or connection. The implications of disowning are significant, signifying a breakdown in the relationship and the potential loss of support, inheritance, or social standing.

Disown meaning with examples

• After years of rebellious behavior and repeated run-ins with the law, the wealthy patriarch made the difficult decision to Disown his eldest son. This meant severing all financial ties, removing him from the family will, and effectively ending their familial relationship. The action was a harsh consequence for a string of damaging behaviours.
• The artist's avant-garde paintings, which were considered highly controversial at the time, were disowned by the art establishment. Critics refused to acknowledge them as legitimate art, and galleries wouldn't display them. However, many years later, these paintings were considered some of the most important works of the century and were considered priceless.
• Following a public scandal involving their company, the board of directors chose to Disown the problematic CEO's statements and actions. They made a public statement clarifying that these actions did not reflect the values of the company. In their public statement, the board was hoping to safeguard the company's reputation and reassure their stakeholders.
• When she embraced a radically different political ideology, the conservative community publicly disowned her. Her parents, once proud supporters of their daughter, distanced themselves, cancelling their support. Their relationship became irreparably strained because of a fundamental shift in political beliefs and alliances.