First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
abstain
verb ab·stain \əb-ˈstān, ab-\
: to choose not to do or have something
: to choose not to vote
Full Definition of ABSTAIN
intransitive verb
: to refrain deliberately and often with an effort of self-denial from an action or practice <abstain from drinking>
— ab·stain·er noun
See abstain defined for English-language learners
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Origin of ABSTAIN
Middle English absteinen, from Anglo-French asteign-, absteign-, stem of astenir, abstenir, from Latin abstinēre, from abs-, ab- + tenēre to hold — more at thin
Other Government and Politics Terms
ABSTAIN Defined for Kids
abstain
verb ab·stain \əb-ˈstān\
ab·stainedab·stain·ing
Definition of ABSTAIN for Kids
: to choose not to do or have something <abstain from voting>
— ab·stain·er noun
Medical Dictionary
abstain
intransitive verb ab·stain \əb-ˈstān, ab-\
Medical Definition of ABSTAIN
: to refrain deliberately and often with an effort of self-denial from an action or practice (as consumption of a food or a drug or indulgence in sexual intercourse)
—ab·stain·er noun
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