SELF-COMMAND Synonyms: 88 Similar and Opposite Words

self-command

noun

ˌself-kə-ˈmand

Definition of self-command

as in restraint

the checking of one's true feelings and impulses when dealing with others a witness practicing remarkable self-command under intense questioning by several members of Congress

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in temperance

the power to control one's actions, impulses, or emotions an aloof man of great self-command but little charm

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of self-command He was shaped in San Antonio by an environment that demanded alertness, self-command, and the ability to read the room quickly. — Matt Emma, USA Today, 13 May 2026 In his mind, the army was not a caste apart but an instrument of the republic – an arena in which self-command and civic virtue were tested. — Maurizio Valsania, The Conversation, 2 Oct. 2025

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-command

Noun

In many instances Rama approaches difficult situations with restraint and adherence to dharma (righteous conduct), whereas Lakshmana is expressive, impulsive, quick to anger, and distrustful.

— Tamanna Nangia, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 Oct. 2026
The far-right Vox leader, Santiago Abascal, who is likely hoping to enter a coalition government with the conservatives, did not show the same restraint.

— ABC News, ABC News, 29 Oct. 2026

Definition of restraint

Noun

And his prescription is tighter discipline — a major theme of the four day party meeting.

— Andy Browne, semafor.com, 27 Oct. 2026
Law enforcement and schools districts continually urge parents to warn their children of the consequences of making false or written threats, including facing a felony charge and school discipline.

— Angie DiMichele, Sun Sentinel, 27 Oct. 2026

Definition of discipline

Noun

With the smoke from the fireworks still hanging in the air, Megill gathered his composure and struck out Jonny DeLuca with a nasty breaking ball to end the game.

— Kevin Dotson, CNN Money, 23 Oct. 2026
In eleven years of service, Masha had never heard her mistress speak with such lack of composure.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 13 Oct. 2026

Definition of composure

Noun

In my experience, the involvement of ketamine or other drugs invariably makes a bad situation worse – complicating consent, impairing judgment and reducing inhibitions.

— Christopher P. Holstege, The Conversation, 15 Oct. 2026
Many visual motifs emerge, most notably the men in the crowd who shed any inhibitions to cry, dance, and belt the songs at the top of their lungs.

— Marshall Shaffer, IndieWire, 5 Sep. 2026

Definition of inhibition

Noun

The election process was marred by allegations of voter suppression, with Lula's campaign reporting suspended public transportation in some key areas, prompting the court to extend voting by two hours.

— Anniek Bao, CNBC, 26 Oct. 2026
But my voice didn't have much depth, and background noise leaked through much more than on newer headphones with newer suppression tech.

— Christian de Looper, PC Magazine, 26 Oct. 2026