n.

1. a concept or idea not associated with any specific instance;
   abstraction
   
   • he loved her only in the abstract--not in person
2. a sketchy summary of the main points of an argument or theory;
   outline, synopsis, precis

v.

1. consider a concept without thinking of a specific example; consider abstractly or theoretically
2. make off with belongings of others;
   pilfer, cabbage, purloin, pinch, snarf, swipe, hook, sneak, filch, nobble, lift
3. consider apart from a particular case or instance
   
   • Let's abstract away from this particular example
4. give an abstract (of)

adj.

1. existing only in the mind; separated from embodiment
   
   • abstract words like `truth' and `justice'
2. not representing or imitating external reality or the objects of nature;
   abstractionist, nonfigurative, nonobjective
   
   • a large abstract painting
3. dealing with a subject in the abstract without practical purpose or intention
   
   • abstract reasoning
   • abstract science