abstinence
NounSynonyms:
abstention
WordNet 3.0
Noun (2)
- the trait of abstaining (especially from alcohol)Synonyms: abstention
- act or practice of refraining from indulging an appetite
Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)
Abstinence \Ab"sti*nence\, n. [F. abstinence, L. abstinentia, fr. abstinere. See Abstain.]
1.The act or practice of abstaining; voluntary forbearance of any action, especially the refraining from an indulgence of appetite, or from customary gratifications of animal or sensual propensities. Specifically, the practice of abstaining from intoxicating beverages, -- called also total abstinence. [1913 Webster]
The abstinence from a present pleasure that offers itself is a pain, nay, oftentimes, a very great one.— Locke.[1913 Webster]
2.The practice of self-denial by depriving one's self of certain kinds of food or drink, especially of meat. [1913 Webster]
Penance, fasts, and abstinence, To punish bodies for the soul's offense.— Dryden.[1913 Webster]