# abstinent

/ˈæbstənənt/ (US) · /ˈæbstɪnənt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

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

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The monk lived a life of total abstinence.
- During the Victorian era, many people considered the abstinent lifestyle a mark of high moral character.
- The historical account details the life of an abstinent leader who believed that physical restraint was essential for maintaining mental clarity and spiritual purity.

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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.