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Definition of abstinence

abstinence

/ˈæb.stɪ.nəns/
ab · sti · nence
Adverb:abstinently
•
Plural:abstinences
•
Adjective:abstinent
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abstinence Lexical Profile

abstinence Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The fact or practice of restraining oneself from indulging in something, typically alcohol, rich food, or sexual activity, often for moral, religious, or health reasons.

Example

"The physician recommended complete abstinence from caffeine and alcohol during the six-week recovery period."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for abstinence

• Nearby Words

abstainer
abstemiously
abstention
abstinence
abstinent
abstract
abstracted

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in Middle English from Old French abstinence, from Latin abstinentia ('self-restraint'), derived from the verb abstinere ('to hold back' or 'refrain'), from ab- ('away') and tenere ('to hold').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Abstinence. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/abstinence
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