Definition of ABSTINENCE

abstinence

Meanings

Plural: abstinences

Noun

  • the trait of abstaining (especially from alcohol)
  • act or practice of refraining from indulging an appetite
  • The act or practice of abstaining, refraining from indulging a desire or appetite.
  • Specifically, the practice of abstaining from intoxicating/alcoholic beverages; total abstinence; teetotalism).
  • The act or practice of abstaining, refraining from indulging a desire or appetite.
  • Specifically, the practice of abstaining from sexual intercourse, either permanently or until marriage.
  • The act or practice of abstaining, refraining from indulging a desire or appetite.
  • Abstention from certain foods on days of penitential observance.
  • The act or practice of abstaining, refraining from indulging a desire or appetite.
  • The practice of self-denial; self-restraint; forebearance from anything.
  • Self-denial; abstaining; or forebearance of anything.
  • Delay of spending to accrue capital.

Origin / Etymology

From Middle English abstinence, from Old French abstinence, from Latin abstinentia, from abstinēns, present participle of abstineō (“I withhold”). Equivalent to abstain + -ence.

Synonyms

abstention

Scrabble Score: 14

abstinence is a valid Scrabble (US) TWL word
abstinence is a valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
abstinence is a valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 18

abstinence is a valid Words With Friends word