GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English
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Found one definition
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Abstinence , n. [F. abstinence, L. abstinentia, fr. abstinere. See Abstain.]
- The act or practice of abstaining; voluntary forbearance of any action, especially the refraining from an indulgence of appetite, or from customary gratifications of animal or sensual propensities. Specifically, the practice of abstaining from intoxicating beverages, -- called also total abstinence.1913 Webster
The abstinence from a present pleasure that offers itself is a pain, nay, oftentimes, a very great one.
Locke.1913 Webster - The practice of self-denial by depriving one's self of certain kinds of food or drink, especially of meat.1913 Webster
Penance, fasts, and abstinence,
To punish bodies for the soul's offense.Dryden.1913 Webster
- The act or practice of abstaining; voluntary forbearance of any action, especially the refraining from an indulgence of appetite, or from customary gratifications of animal or sensual propensities. Specifically, the practice of abstaining from intoxicating beverages, -- called also total abstinence.