n. The act of leaving with an intention not to reclaim or resume; an utter forsaking; abandonment.n. The state of being forsaken or abandoned.n. The gaining of land from the water by a change of the water-line.n. The land so gained.n. Unfaithfulness or remissness; neglect: as, a dereliction of duty.n. Synonyms Desertion, relinquishment.n. Failure, unfaithfulness.