1 to stop doing something before you have finished it, usually because it is too difficult: --
[ + -ing verb ] I've given up trying to help her.
I've given up going to the gym - it wasn't making any difference.
He used to try to get me to dress smartly but he's long since given up on me.
I'll have to give up my ticket to the concert if I can't find anyone to go with me.
He gave up all his worldly possessions and went to live in a monastery.