sobriety

American  

[suh-brahy-i-tee, soh-] / səˈbraɪ ɪ ti, soʊ- /

noun

1. the state or quality of being sober rather than intoxicated.

2. temperance or moderation, especially in the use of alcoholic beverages.

3. the condition of a person addicted to alcohol, or to some other mood-altering substance, who successfully abstains from its use and from other associated habits while addressing the root causes of dependency and adopting a new outlook on life.

   She’s turned herself around after entering a treatment center with staff who never gave up on her until she achieved sobriety.

   Even once you have attained sobriety, recovery is a lifelong process.

4. seriousness, gravity, or solemnity.

   Our farewell gathering for the six laid-off employees was an event marked by sobriety.

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sobriety British  

/ səʊˈbraɪətɪ /

noun

1. the state or quality of being sober

2. the quality of refraining from excess

3. the quality of being serious or sedate

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Other Word Forms

• nonsobriety noun

Etymology

Origin of sobriety

1375–1425; late Middle English sobrietie (< Old French sobriete ) < Latin sōbrietās, equivalent to sōbri ( us ) sober + -etās, variant of -itās -ity after vowel stems

Explanation

Sobriety is the state of being sober, which can mean either not intoxicated or being solemn. If he takes a drink, an alcoholic ends a stretch of sobriety. You might note sobriety in the stands when your team is losing. When thinking about sobriety, think about the Puritans, and the way they kept the Sabbath. For them, even laughing on a Sunday was seen as an excessive display. Known for sobriety, they preferred a day marked by prayer and contemplation. It goes without saying that they frowned upon the consumption of any form of alcohol––favoring sobriety of both kinds.

Example Sentences

The manosphere’s sobriety is robed in strength and self-actualization, no different than the sleep routine, supplements, and squats that will sculpt the best version of you.

From Slate • Feb. 15, 2026

"There's already quite a strong trend towards sobriety," says Mintel's Jonny Forsyth.

From BBC • Jan. 24, 2026

"The color purple is associated with power, authority, luxury, royalty, spirituality, and sobriety," Medina said of Sheinbaum's choice.

From Barron's • Jan. 2, 2026

Fourteen itemized complaints, most concerning fiscal matters, are presented with sobriety, plus a slow burn of understandable anger.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 18, 2025

Jo had sudden fits of sobriety, and was seen to shake her fist at Mr. Brooke’s umbrella, which had been left in the hall.

From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott