self-control
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
- self-controlled adjective
- self-controlling adjective
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.
Given the attention-sucking power of mainstream devices and software, "this is not about self-control anymore," Tang added.
From Barron's • Mar. 4, 2026
For years, scientists have believed that compulsive behaviors happen when people become trapped in a "habit loop" that overrides self-control.
From Science Daily • Feb. 16, 2026
After all, research consistently shows that individuals with lower self-control save less, carry more debt and make poorer financial choices.
From MarketWatch • Jan. 23, 2026
And while the majority of players have the self-control to enjoy games without letting them interfere with their lives, there are some who struggle to set boundaries.
From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 21, 2025
He straightened his disheveled clothing with fingers that were numb and shaking and walked the rest of the way to the clearing with rigid self-control.
From "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller
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.
