† abˈster, v. Obs. rare.
[ad. L. absterrē-re to frighten from, f. abs from + terrē-re to frighten.]
To deter. (Perhaps only used by Becon.)
| 1542 Becon Christmas Banq. Wks. 1843, 63 This in like manner should abster and fear me and mine from doing evil. ― Pleas. New Nosegay Wks. 1843, 198 Unfeigned Humility..also absterreth and frayeth us from all arrogancy, pride, and elation of mind. |