as in restraint
the power to control one's actions, impulses, or emotions
it takes self-discipline not to yell out when someone makes you angry
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Recent Examples of self-discipline
During this time, the faithful devote themselves to prayer, charitable deeds, fasting and other forms of self-discipline.
—
Christina Fan, CBS News, 18 Feb. 2026
At its core, the idea is not to withdraw from society but to protect it by cultivating self-control and self-discipline in everyday life.
—Irfan Sarwar, Chicago Tribune, 17 Feb. 2026
Jackson traveled the country preaching self-esteem and self-discipline.
—Johanna Neuman, Los Angeles Times, 17 Feb. 2026
During Lent, the faithful devote themselves to prayer and other devotions, as well as charitable deeds, fasting and other forms of self-discipline.
—ABC News, 16 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for self-discipline
Christina Fan, CBS News, 18 Feb. 2026
At its core, the idea is not to withdraw from society but to protect it by cultivating self-control and self-discipline in everyday life.
—Irfan Sarwar, Chicago Tribune, 17 Feb. 2026
Jackson traveled the country preaching self-esteem and self-discipline.
—Johanna Neuman, Los Angeles Times, 17 Feb. 2026
During Lent, the faithful devote themselves to prayer and other devotions, as well as charitable deeds, fasting and other forms of self-discipline.
—ABC News, 16 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for self-discipline
Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-discipline
Noun
-
No official casualty figures were immediately available from the violence that prompted calls for restraint from the United Nations and the United States as the government and opposition traded blame for the violence.—
ABC News,
ABC News,
4 June 2026
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However, the negotiations have allowed Trump to say that relations with China are in good shape and that both countries have exercised restraint.—
Thomas Wright,
The Atlantic,
4 June 2026
Noun
-
Far too often, obesity is only seen as a lifestyle choice or a failure of willpower.—
Karen R. Studer,
Sacbee.com,
1 June 2026
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But the Jason Sudeikis-starring sappy comedy is coming back, thanks to the pure willpower of a streaming service in desperate need of an all-around hit.—
Kelly Lawler,
USA Today,
1 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Self-discipline.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-discipline. Accessed 7 Jun. 2026.
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