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

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

Moral judgments like these became part of the school curriculum in the late 19th century, as the temperance movement gained momentum toward its goal of total abstinence. — Tiney Ricciardi, Denver Post, 3 May 2026