abstinence

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It concludes a 40-day period known as Lent, during which Christians focus on prayer, almsgiving, and practice traditions such as abstinence from eating meat on certain days.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

They are concerned that encouraging abstinence from particular foods could trigger binge eating and extreme dieting to compensate.

From Salon • Oct. 13, 2025

That’s not to suggest that abstinence alone has turned Team USA into champions.

From The Wall Street Journal • Sep. 11, 2025

"Because Friday was the day of the crucifixion, Fridays were always regarded as a day of penance and abstinence," he said.

From BBC • Dec. 14, 2024

“You don’t eat ’em,” returned Mr. Pumblechook, sighing and nodding his head several times, as if he might have expected that, and as if abstinence from watercresses were consistent with my downfall.

From "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens