"abstinence" Definition

Definitions for the word "abstinence" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. n.
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.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. n.
The practice of self-denial by depriving one's self of certain kinds of food or drink, especially of meat.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. n.
Abstaining, esp. From food or alcohol. abstinent adj. [french: related to *abstain]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "abstinence" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "abstinence" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

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