# abstemious

/ɐbstˈiːmiəs/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

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

## Definition

describing someone who eats or drinks very little, especially to stay healthy or save money. It is an old-fashioned word for being very careful with your habits.

For teachers: characterised by moderation in eating, drinking, or spending. Often used to describe a lifestyle of self-discipline or frugality.

## Examples

- He lived an abstemious life, eating very little and spending nothing on luxury.
- The monks followed an abstemious diet, consuming only simple grains and vegetables to maintain their spiritual discipline.
- While the general public indulged in the feast, the king maintained an abstemious approach, mindful of the rising costs of his court's extravagant lifestyle.

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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.