self-discipline
Americannoun
noun
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Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of self-discipline
First recorded in 1830–40
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How does self-discipline compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
Explanation
When you are in control of your feelings or impulses, that's called self-discipline. Even if it takes a lot of self-discipline not to giggle when your teacher solemnly scolds the class, you shouldn't let yourself do it. Someone who has the trait of self-discipline is described as self-disciplined. It takes self-discipline to do all sorts of things, from practicing piano every day until you're ready for your recital, to resisting the urge to eat the cupcakes your brother baked for dessert, or biting your tongue instead of telling your cranky neighbor what you really think of her yappy dog. Discipline is used here to mean "practice, knowledge, or training," rather than "punishment."
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.
However, the researchers note that the findings show a correlation, not cause and effect, and that factors like motivation or self-discipline may also influence outcomes.
From Science Daily • Mar. 30, 2026
He wants the nation to reflect on the things that he’s asked his own son to understand: “self-restraint and self-discipline and self-control.”
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026
Jackson traveled the country preaching self-esteem and self-discipline.
From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 17, 2026
Enrique is obsessive about PSG and his own self-discipline down to the finest details, with his watch even alerting him if he has not carried out any stretching or movement for 30 minutes.
From BBC • May 30, 2025
My own self-discipline was reinforced by my aunt Phathiwe, who lived in the Great Place and scrutinized my homework every night.
From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela
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.
