Synonyms of abstinence

abstinence

noun

ˈab-stə-nən(t)s 

1

as in temperance

voluntary restraint in the satisfaction of one's appetites

a cleric vainly preaching abstinence in a world where self-indulgence is regarded as almost a virtue

Synonyms & Similar Words

• temperance
• sobriety
• discipline
• restraint
• continence
• self-denial
• self-abnegation
• forbearance
• self-control
• control
• asceticism
• self-discipline
• austerity
• self-mastery
• self-command

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• greed
• gluttony
• rapacity
• hedonism
• sensuality
• voracity
• self-indulgence
• rapaciousness
• voraciousness
• sybaritism

2

as in purity

abstention from sexual intercourse

an AIDS-prevention program that relies primarily on abstinence

Synonyms & Similar Words

• purity
• celibacy
• chastity
• virginity
• continence
• chasteness
• virtue
• innocence
• modesty
• honor

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• licentiousness
• debauchery
• lechery
• whoring
• venery
• wenching

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of abstinence

Kennedy also used the opportunity to renew the administration’s attacks on harm reduction, strategies that aim to reduce death and disease among people using drugs without demanding instant abstinence. — Lev Facher, STAT, 17 June 2026

But he's benefited from his busy daily workload and a lifetime of abstinence from tobacco and alcohol, said his physician, Sean Barbabella. — Zachary Schermele, USA Today, 30 May 2026

While long-term abstinence can help, experts say some impairments may be only partially reversible, depending on how long and how much alcohol was consumed. — Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 14 May 2026

These bouts of abstinence and punishment would work for a while but, like garden weeds, the pounds would always come back. — Matt Slater, New York Times, 9 May 2026