Abstinence

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /ˈæb.stɪ.nnÌ©s/
• US IPA: /ˈæb.stÉ™.nnÌ©s/, /ˈæb.stÉ™.nnÌ©ts/

Alternative forms

• abstinency

Origin

From Middle English, from Old French astinence, from Latin abstinentia, from abstinens, present participle of abstinēō ("withhold").

Full definition of abstinence

Noun

1. The act or practice of abstaining, refraining from indulging a desire or appetite. First attested around 1150 to 1350.

1. Penance, fasts, and abstinence,
   To punish bodies for the soul's offense. - John DrydenThe abstinence from a present pleasure that offers itself is a pain, nay, oftentimes, a very great one. — John LockeComplete abstinence is easier than perfect moderation. — Augustine of Hippo
1. Specifically, the practice of abstaining from intoxicating/alcoholic beverages; total abstinence; teetotalism). First attested around 1150 to 1350.
2. Specifically, the practice of abstaining from sexual intercourse, either permanently or until marriage. First attested around 1150 to 1350.
3. (ecclesiastical) Abstention from certain foods on days of penitential observance. First attested around 1150 to 1350.
2. The practice of self-denial; self-restraint; forebearance from anything. First attested around 1350 to 1470.
3. (obsolete) Self-denial; abstaining; or forebearance of anything. First attested around 1150 to 1350.
4. (business) Delay of spending to accrue capital.