self-control
noun
self-con·trol
ˌself-kən-ˈtrōl 
: restraint exercised over one's own impulses, emotions, or desires
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
Focusing on connection, basic needs, and follow-through helps build trust and teaches kids self-control over time.
—
Leslie Garisto Pfaff, Parents, 20 Dec. 2025
Together, these findings indicate that obesity follows predictable social and economic patterns, rather than arising primarily from individual failures of self-control.
—Time, 19 Dec. 2025
Caramel lovers will have a self-control conundrum over these Caramel Snickerdoodles.
—Melinda Salchert, Southern Living, 17 Dec. 2025
The process teaches them discipline and self-control.
—Jonathan Sanchez, CNBC, 11 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-control
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.
Leslie Garisto Pfaff, Parents, 20 Dec. 2025
Together, these findings indicate that obesity follows predictable social and economic patterns, rather than arising primarily from individual failures of self-control.
—Time, 19 Dec. 2025
Caramel lovers will have a self-control conundrum over these Caramel Snickerdoodles.
—Melinda Salchert, Southern Living, 17 Dec. 2025
The process teaches them discipline and self-control.
—Jonathan Sanchez, CNBC, 11 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-control
Cite this Entry
“Self-control.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-control. Accessed 25 Dec. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share