abstinence

noun

ˈab-stə-nən(t)s How to pronounce abstinence (audio)
Definition of abstinencenext
1
as in temperance
voluntary restraint in the satisfaction of one's appetites a cleric vainly preaching abstinence in a world where self-indulgence is regarded as almost a virtue

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in purity
abstention from sexual intercourse an AIDS-prevention program that relies primarily on abstinence

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of abstinence Rather, its experience shows that reducing the harms of drug use requires painstakingly building and sustaining a system that connects people with treatment, healthcare and social support without making abstinence a precondition for receiving help. — Karyn Sporer, The Conversation, 14 Sep. 2026 The World Health Organization says that this is possible — that with moderate drinking, even after long periods of abstinence, there are lots of people who find success of clinical significance and life improvement. — James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 12 Aug. 2026 To qualify for grants, organizations must now teach that abstinence is the only way to prevent pregnancy. — Ellie Austin, Fortune, 22 July 2026 Over six months, recurrent atrial fibrillation or flutter occurred less frequently in the coffee group than in the abstinence group. — Robert Glatter, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for abstinence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for abstinence
  1. temperance
  2. purity
  3. celibacy
  4. chastity
  5. virginity
Noun
  • As the temperance movement grew, the Besley Brewery attempted to change with the times, but was later sold around 1912.
    — Joseph States, Chicago Tribune, 8 Oct. 2026
  • Founded in 1961 by a puppeteer who acquired a former Victorian temperance hall damaged during the Blitz of World War II, the theater holds one of the world’s last remaining double marionette bridges, suitable for long-string puppets.
    — Kelly Kasulis Cho, Christian Science Monitor, 8 Oct. 2026
Definition of temperance
Noun
  • The nod to purity emphasized the paint brand’s relationship to cleanliness and virtue, and possibly other notions of bigotry.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 14 Oct. 2026
  • At the same time, brands such as Bottega Veneta offered a more discreet form of luxury rooted in purity of design and craftsmanship.
    — Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026
Definition of purity
Noun
  • By all accounts, the real Grandier was a handsome, charismatic speaker as well as a serial philanderer who spoke out against clerical celibacy.
    — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 16 Oct. 2026
  • Gen Z’s apparent celibacy has been the subject of plenty of punditry, and yet fictional romance is only getting steamier.
    — Emily Kelleher, InStyle, 9 Sep. 2026
Definition of celibacy
Noun
  • The government’s more expansive hijab and chastity law was suspended but not repealed.
    — Pegah Banihashemi, Chicago Tribune, 18 Sep. 2026
  • The only exception comes once a year, when the nationwide chastity mandate is temporarily lifted and the use of protection is mandatory.
    — Olivia Singh, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026
Definition of chastity
Noun
  • In cult-classic Can’t Hardly Wait, Kenny is a high school senior and wannabe-rapper, whose one goal is to lose his virginity at a huge graduation party.
    — Leigh Blickley, Entertainment Weekly, 23 Sep. 2026
  • Usually, a disabled romance is about a guy who either wants to lose his virginity or wants to kill himself.
    — Glenn Garner, Deadline, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of virginity

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abstentious
abstinence
abstinent
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Cite this Entry

“Abstinence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/abstinence. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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