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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2
as in purity
abstention from sexual intercourse
an AIDS-prevention program that relies primarily on abstinence
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Examples of abstinence in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The program is based around harm reduction, a method focused on preventing drug overdoses and the spread of infectious diseases rather than urging abstinence.
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Mark Strassmann, CBS News, 30 July 2024
One common misconception is that asexuality is similar to abstinence or celibacy.
—Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 30 May 2024
Consider abstinence from the figurative substance that’s no longer serving you.
—Anna Medaris, Vox, 21 July 2024
In 2020, this was shortened to a period of 90 days of abstinence.
—Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 18 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for abstinence 
Mark Strassmann, CBS News, 30 July 2024
One common misconception is that asexuality is similar to abstinence or celibacy.
—Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 30 May 2024
Consider abstinence from the figurative substance that’s no longer serving you.
—Anna Medaris, Vox, 21 July 2024
In 2020, this was shortened to a period of 90 days of abstinence.
—Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 18 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for abstinence
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'abstinence.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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“Abstinence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/abstinence. Accessed 1 Oct. 2024.
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