self-control

noun

self-con·​trol ˌself-kən-ˈtrōl How to pronounce self-control (audio)
Synonyms of self-controlnext
: restraint exercised over one's own impulses, emotions, or desires
self-controlled adjective

Synonyms of self-control

Examples of self-control in a Sentence

toddlers have very little self-control she could be passionate and intense, but generally exercised steely self-control in the company of strangers
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Within the brain, executive functions include skills like behavioral self-control, attention, mental flexibility, and working memory. Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 21 Apr. 2026 Adjust your self-control slowly to build trust. Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 17 Apr. 2026 The queen’s impeccable self-control impressed many in Washington. Hadley Hall Meares, Vanity Fair, 15 Apr. 2026 Limits help develop self-control, responsibility, and decision making. Jose Bolaños, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-control

Word History

First Known Use

1653, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-control was in 1653

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Cite this Entry

“Self-control.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-control. Accessed 29 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

self-control

noun
self-con·​trol
ˌself-kən-ˈtrōl
: control over one's own impulses, emotions, or acts
self-controlled
-ˈtrōld
adjective

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