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
-
Both dishes were perfectly prepared al dente and sauced with restraint, unlike many Italian-American eateries.—
Irene S. Levine,
Forbes.com,
28 May 2026
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As the broader fashion landscape moves away from restraint and toward self-expression, wedding guest dressing is evolving alongside it.—
Lauren Fisher,
Footwear News,
28 May 2026
Noun
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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 4 Jun. 2026.
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