ENGLISH
REFERENCE

abstinent

n.
C1 Advanced US //ˈæbstənənt// UK //ˈæbstɪnənt// ab·sti·nent Archaic

n. a person who chooses not to have sex or use drugs for a specific reason. This is an old-fashioned word that you might see in history books or religious texts.

n. a person who refrains from sexual activity or the use of intoxicating substances, typically for religious, health, or moral reasons. Archaic in modern general usage; more common in historical or specific religious contexts.


SIMPLE

The monk lived a life of total abstinence.

CONTEXTUAL

During the Victorian era, many people considered the abstinent lifestyle a mark of high moral character.

COMPLEX

The historical account details the life of an abstinent leader who believed that physical restraint was essential for maintaining mental clarity and spiritual purity.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Etymology 1

First attested in the late 14th century as Middle English abstinent, abstynent, from Old French abstinent, from Latin abstinēns, present participle of abstineō. See abstain.

Etymology 2

From Middle English abstinent (adjective form).

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