self-control

noun

self-con·​trol ˌself-kən-ˈtrōl 

: restraint exercised over one's own impulses, emotions, or desires

self-controlled

ˌself-kən-ˈtrōld 

adjective

Synonyms of self-control

• restraint

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

As the South American and world champions tired, their self-control slipped. — Adam Crafton, New York Times, 20 July 2026

Kids with behavioral needs benefit from improving their self-esteem and self-control. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2026

All of this self-control and self-restraint goes out the window because of how much this person is feeding pieces of you that haven’t been fed in a very long time and feeling just really reignited by that love in a way that maybe feels deviant. — Jack Irvin, PEOPLE, 20 July 2026

The dog has to learn not to be overstimulated because overstimulation unravels self-control. — Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 20 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1653, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-control

• amphibole
• asystole
• buttonhole
• casserole
• centriole
• decontrol
• glycerol
• metropole
• monopole
• multipole
• omeprazole
• oriole

Kids Definition

self-control

noun

self-con·​trol

ˌself-kən-ˈtrōl

: control over one's own impulses, emotions, or acts

self-controlled

-ˈtrōld

adjective