Definition

Noun: - The practice of refraining from sexual activity: The act or discipline of choosing not to engage in sexual intercourse or other sexual acts. This is often, but not exclusively, undertaken for religious, spiritual, moral, or personal reasons.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • His vow of celibacy required complete sexual abstention.
  • Some people practice sexual abstention until marriage for personal or religious reasons.
  • The study examined the psychological effects of long-term sexual abstention.

Advanced Usage

• As a concept in ethics or theology: The term is often discussed in contexts of moral philosophy, religious doctrine, or personal discipline, framing abstention as a conscious choice or vow.
  • The lecture focused on sexual abstention as a path to spiritual purity in various traditions.

Variants and Related Words

• Abstinence (n): The practice of restraining oneself from indulging in something, commonly used for both sexual activity and consumption of alcohol or other pleasures. "Sexual abstinence" is a near-synonymous phrase.
• Celibacy (n): The state of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, typically for religious reasons. While closely related, "celibacy" often implies a more formal or lifelong vow.
• Chastity (n): The quality or practice of refraining from sexual intercourse, often associated with virtue and purity.

Synonyms

• Continence: Self-restraint, especially in sexual activity.
• Self-denial: The act of refusing to satisfy one's desires, which can include sexual desires.

Related Phrases

• Practice abstention: To actively engage in the act of refraining.
  • He decided to practice abstention for a year to focus on his personal goals.
• Vow of abstention: A solemn promise to refrain from sexual activity.
  • She took a vow of abstention as part of her spiritual commitment.

Noun

1. abstaining from sexual relations (as because of religious vows)