Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

abstain

verb
æbˈsteɪn
Definition
To choose not to do something or refrain from an action.
Examples
  • She decided to abstain from eating junk food for a month.
  • During the meeting, he chose to abstain from voting on the controversial issue.
  • Doctors often advise patients to abstain from alcohol if they are taking certain medications.
Meaning
To deliberately avoid doing something, often for reasons of morality, health, or personal preference.
Synonyms
  • refrain
  • withhold
  • desist
  • avoid
  • forgo