a-, ab-, abs- +
(Latin: from, away, away from)
This prefix is normally used with elements of Latin and French origins (abs- usually joins elements beginning with c, q or t).
The form ab- is regularly used before all vowels and h; and it becomes a- before the consonants m, p, and v. The prefix apo- has similar meanings.
This list is a very small sample of the multitude of a-, ab-, abs- prefixes that are available in dictionaries and those in this unit are only meant to be examples.
ab urbe condita
A.U.C., from [since] the founding of the city [Rome], c. 753 B.C.).
The Romans used this date as the starting point for calculating an era. Ab urbe condita is also presented as Anno urbis conditae, “In the year of the founding of the city” which is also abbreviated A.U.C.
abuse
To use wrongly or improperly; to misuse.
avert
1. To turn away.
2. To ward off or to prevent.
A man who averts danger wards it away from himself; to avert one's eyes is to turn them away.
avoid
1. To keep away from, to shun.
2. To stay clear from; keep away from; keep out of the way of someone or something: "Her former husband now avoids her."
3. To prevent the occurrence of; prevent from happening: "If at all possible, we should avoid a confrontation".
4. To refrain from doing something.
5. To refrain from certain foods or beverages: "During fasting, one should avoid eating solid food; however, liquids are recommended."
6. To declare invalid; to say that something is void or invalid.
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