GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

last match results

Found 2 definitions

1.       
   Abstain , v. i. [imp. & p. p. Abstained ; p. pr. & vb. n. Abstaining.] [OE. absteynen, abstenen, OF. astenir, abstenir, F. abstenir, fr. L. abstinere, abstentum, v. t. & v. i., to keep from; ab, abs + tenere to hold. See Tenable.] To hold one's self aloof; to forbear or refrain voluntarily, and especially from an indulgence of the passions or appetites; -- with from.
   1913 Webster
   Not a few abstained from voting.
   Macaulay.
   
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   Who abstains from meat that is not gaunt?
   Shak.
   
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   Syn. -- To refrain; forbear; withhold; deny one's self; give up; relinquish.
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2.       
   Abstain, v. t. To hinder; to withhold.
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   Whether he abstain men from marrying.
   Milton.
   
   1913 Webster