self-control
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of self-control
First recorded in 1705–15
Compare meaning
How does self-control compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
Explanation
Self-control is the quality that allows you to stop yourself from doing things you want to do but that might not be in your best interest. For example, without self-control, you might burp and curse nonstop. Have you ever had a potato chip or two and pretty soon you’ve eaten the whole bag? Eating a whole bag of chips shows little self-control. Not charging an expensive thing you want to a credit card takes self-control. Getting up early for work takes self-control. Without self-control, it's hard to get far in life. Self-control is similar to self-discipline.
Vocabulary lists containing self-control
Promises to Keep
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History is made in PA: Clinton's DNC Acceptance Speech
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Loser
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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.
Two consultant forensic psychiatrists had also concluded that a properly directed jury could find McIlwaine met the criteria necessary to establish loss of self-control.
From BBC ● Oct. 2, 2026
As a society, we routinely desire what others have, yet too often lack the self-control or self-awareness to be patient and content with what we can afford.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 26, 2026
Grande’s defiant self-control over her image is something for them to celebrate, even worship.
From Salon ● Aug. 8, 2026
The Stroop task is a classic psychological test that has been used for decades to study attention, concentration, and self-control.
From Science Daily ● Jun. 10, 2026
Case in point: at this very moment, it’s taking every ounce of self-control not to stare wistfully at Abby.
From "Leah on the Offbeat" by Becky Albertalli
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
