abstain
verb (used without object)
to hold oneself back voluntarily, especially from something regarded as improper or unhealthy (usually followed byfrom ).
abstaining
-
present participleof abstain.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Some Americans are abstaining for health and wellness reasons, others because of cost.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 8, 2026
Although she did not agree a deal for the new budget Jane Dodds, the Welsh Liberal Democrat leader and the party's only MS, said she would also be abstaining on the budget.
From BBC ● Jan. 27, 2026
The tally was 29-0 for approval, with Gilbert’s Cavaliers abstaining.
From Barron's ● Jan. 16, 2026
Could anyone really be blamed for wanting to avoid even more pain and heartbreak by abstaining from dating altogether?
From Salon ● Dec. 17, 2025
Even when Ramadan arrived during the season and I had to play volleyball and fence while fasting from sunrise to sunset, abstaining from food and water, I still didn’t want to quit.
From "Proud" by Ibtihaj Muhammad
