Synonyms of abstinence

abstinence

noun

ˈab-stə-nən(t)s 

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• temperance
• sobriety
• discipline
• restraint
• continence
• self-denial
• self-abnegation
• forbearance
• self-control
• control
• asceticism
• self-discipline
• austerity
• self-mastery
• self-command

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• greed
• gluttony
• rapacity
• hedonism
• sensuality
• voracity
• self-indulgence
• rapaciousness
• voraciousness
• sybaritism

2

as in purity

abstention from sexual intercourse

an AIDS-prevention program that relies primarily on abstinence

Synonyms & Similar Words

• purity
• celibacy
• chastity
• virginity
• continence
• chasteness
• virtue
• innocence
• modesty
• honor

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• licentiousness
• debauchery
• lechery
• whoring
• venery
• wenching

Examples of abstinence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

That state of affairs has diluted asceticism from the actual, if difficult, rejection of indulgence into a fetish for that abstinence. —Ian Bogost, The Atlantic, 26 Aug. 2024

On one hand, my faith teaches me that abstinence is a virtue, a testament to my dedication to God. —Hena Bryan, refinery29.com, 11 Sep. 2024

This is higher than any other birth control method except abstinence. —Claire Gillespie, Health, 19 June 2024

Whereas abstinence promotion may reach some students, in most situations, this is not a practical teen pregnancy prevention strategy. —Dr. Scott A. Rivkees, TIME, 15 Aug. 2024