abstain
verb (used without object)
to hold oneself back voluntarily, especially from something regarded as improper or unhealthy (usually followed byfrom ).
abstained
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past participleof abstain.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof abstain.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
abstainverb (used without object)to hold oneself back voluntarily, especially from something regarded as improper or unhealthy (usually followed byfrom ).
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.
Aimed at "a more accurate representation" of continental landmasses, the resolution was supported by 164 countries while the United States voted against it and six other states abstained.
From Barron's ● Sep. 4, 2026
Norway's football federation abstained and argued the bidding process undermined "Fifa's reforms for good governance" and challenged "trust in Fifa".
From BBC ● Jul. 6, 2026
Supervisors Kathryn Barger, Janice Hahn and Holly Mitchell abstained from voting on the motion to extend the protection, while Supervisors Hilda Solis and Horvath supported it.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 3, 2026
Eleven states voted in favor, from Greece to Panama, while mediator Pakistan and leftist-led Colombia abstained.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 7, 2026
Apparently the protections of the treaty were quite strong for those who totally abstained from magic and mischief.
From "Fablehaven" by Brandon Mull
