Disowns

To formally and publicly renounce or reject a familial, social, or professional connection with someone or something. This action implies a refusal to acknowledge, accept responsibility for, or support the person, group, or belief in question. Disowning often carries significant emotional weight, signaling a definitive break and can be a painful act for all involved. It suggests a severing of ties based on disapproval, disagreement, or a desire to distance oneself from the actions or character of the disowned party. The act often conveys a shift in allegiance, values, or principles and could be seen as a means of protecting one's reputation, standing, or personal well-being. It implies the rejection of an established relationship, association, or claim.

Disowns meaning with examples

• The wealthy family, shocked by their son's radical political activism, publicly disowns him, cutting off all financial support and familial connection. They declared his views a betrayal of their values, leaving him to forge his own path and support himself with the very skills they had taught him. This left him with only his strong personal beliefs and a lack of familial connection, as he struggles for success.
• The art collector, upon discovering that a painting in his collection was a forgery, immediately disowns the artwork. He issued a public statement denouncing the piece and removing it from display, tarnishing the reputations of his peers. This decision was necessary to preserve his credibility and ensure that any past sales that were dependent upon this piece were able to be revised, with apologies, as quickly as possible.
• After the controversial statements by their lead singer, the band members disown his words as representing their collective opinion. They issue a statement emphasizing their commitment to social justice, distancing themselves from the negative public reaction. This was an attempt to protect their brand and image, which resulted in mixed reactions. It ultimately resulted in them splitting up.
• The religious order, after a long internal debate, disowns a former member who has publicly renounced their faith and doctrines. They excommunicate him and ban him from the community, stating that his beliefs are heresy. This action serves as both a spiritual and practical measure, as it protects the other members from those beliefs. It is meant to set a clear boundary and preserve their faith.
• The company disowns a product line after numerous consumer complaints and safety concerns surface. They cease production, recall existing units, and issue a public apology, acknowledging the flaw. This move is necessary to protect their brand and address potential legal liabilities, which will affect their bottom line for the fiscal quarter. They will have to issue refunds and recall the product.