abstinence

see definition of abstinence

nounrestraint from desires, especially physical desires

Word Origin & History

mid-14c., "forbearance in indulgence of the appetites," from Old French abstinence (earlier astenance), from Latin abstinentia, noun of quality from abstinentem (nominative abstinens), present participle of abstinere (see abstain). Specifically of sexual appetites from mid-14c., but also in Middle English of food, fighting, luxury.

Example Sentences for abstinence

Now that we have dined well, I would like to say aword on abstinence.

When abstinence is the only choice, an ascetic frame of mind comes easy.

You will meet my abstinence by the only amends you can make to me.

It is abstinence from evil quite as much as eager realization of good.

The Ihrm must be put on, and the obligations of abstinence which it entails must be observed.

Another secret of their modest wealth is their abstinence from strong drink.

The worship of Brahma consists in doing penance and in abstinence.

There must be abstinence from the sex relation before a fishing expedition.

And now, secondly, notice the plain Christian duty of abstinence.

Abstinence is as easy to me as temperance would be difficult.

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Synonyms for abstinence

noun restraint from desires, especially physical desires

Antonyms for abstinence

Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.

More words related to abstinence

abnegation

noun. denial, renouncement of something

abstemiousness

noun. sobriety

abstention

noun. refraining

birth control

noun. pregnancy prevention

cherry

noun. (vulgar) virginity

Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.