abstinence

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[edit] English

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[edit] Pronunciation

  • IPA: /ˈæbstɪnəns/
  • (file)

[edit] Etymology

From the French abstinence, from the Latin abstinentia, from abstinere; see abstain.

[edit] Noun

abstinence (uncountable)

  1. The act or practice of abstaining, refraining from indulging a desire.
    The abstinence from a present pleasure that offers itself is a pain, nay, oftentimes, a very great one.John Locke
    Complete abstinence is easier than perfect moderation.St Augustine
  2. Specifically, the practice of abstaining from intoxicating/alcoholic beverages (also called total abstinence, teetotalism).
  3. Specifically, the practice of abstaining from sexual intercourse, either permanently or until marriage.
  4. The practice of self-denial by depriving one's self (partly or totally) of certain kinds of food or drink, especially meat.
    Penance, fasts, and abstinence, / To punish bodies for the soul's offense. - John Dryden

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