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
-
The department is currently investigating more than two dozen facilities and says, while most providers recognize the need for regulation, some don't think the laws around restraint and seclusion should apply to them.—
Shaun Boyd,
CBS News,
16 Apr. 2026
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The volunteer, named Jacki and played with warm restraint by Tessa Thompson, has been slowly developing a friendship with Yarris, a mercurial but undeniably charismatic character played by Adrien Brody, your go-to actor for any slight man with a loping, unsteady energy.—
Jackson McHenry,
Vulture,
16 Apr. 2026
Noun
-
Jelly Roll’s transformation started with curiosity, not willpower.—
Allison Palmer,
Charlotte Observer,
10 Apr. 2026
-
Her Majesty paraded in a low-cut body clinging outfit which was held up by sheer willpower.—
Joshua John Miller,
Vanity Fair,
9 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Self-discipline.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-discipline. Accessed 19 Apr. 2026.
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