ETYM Latin abortare, from abortus, p. p. of aboriri; ab + oriri to rise, to be born. Related to Orient.
1. To terminate a pregnancy by undergoing an abortion.
2. To terminate before completion, as of a computer process, a mission, etc.

1. To cut off the end or tail of; to shorten; to abridge; to diminish; to reduce.
2. To interrupt.

1. To cause to end earlier than intended.
2. To interrupt before its natural or planned end; SYN. break short, break off.