# abstainer

CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abstainer
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a person who chooses not to do something, especially something that is common or expected. You often hear this word when talking about people who do not drink alcohol or smoke.

For teachers: a person who refrains from a particular activity or consumption, especially one that is widespread or socially expected. Often used in the context of temperance or religious observance.

## Examples

- He is a strict abstainer who never drinks coffee.
- The company hired several abstainers to lead the health and wellness initiative for the office staff.
- While the majority of the population consumed the local wine, a small but vocal group of abstainers advocated for stricter regulations on its production and sale.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.