abstinence
Definition from Wiktionary, the free dictionary
Contents |
[edit] English
[edit] Pronunciation
[edit] Etymology
From the French abstinence, from the Latin abstinentia, from abstinere; see abstain.
[edit] Noun
abstinence (uncountable)
- 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
- Specifically, the practice of abstaining from intoxicating/alcoholic beverages (also called total abstinence, teetotalism).
- Specifically, the practice of abstaining from sexual intercourse, either permanently or until marriage.
- 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
[edit] Translations
the act or practice of abstaining
|
|
specifically, abstinence from alcohol
|
|
specifically, abstinence from sexual intercourse
|
|
the practice of self-denial
|
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- abstinence in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, G. & C. Merriam, 1913
