Abstinent

Pronunciation

• US IPA: /ˈæb.stɪ.nnÌ©t/
• US IPA: /ˈæb.stÉ™.nnÌ©t/

• First attested in the late 14th century. From Middle English, from Old French abstinent, from Latin abstinÄ“ns, present participle of abstineō.
• See abstain

Full definition of abstinent

Adjective

1. Refraining from indulgence, especially from the indulgence of appetite; abstemious; continent; temperate. First attested around 1350 to 1470.

From Middle English abstinent (adjective form).

Noun

1. One who abstains; a faster. First attested around 1350 to 1470.
2. (usually capitalized, religion, historical) One of a sect who appeared in France and Spain in the 3rd century, and believed in abstinence towards meat and sex.