self-control

[ self-kuhn-trohl, self- ]

noun

1. control or restraint of oneself or one's actions, feelings, etc.

   Synonyms: levelheadedness, willpower, self-restraint, self-discipline

self-control

noun

1. the ability to exercise restraint or control over one's feelings, emotions, reactions, etc

Derived Forms

• ˌself-conˈtrolled, adjective
• ˌself-conˈtrolling, adjective

Other Words From

• self-con·trolled adjective
• self-con·trolling adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-control¹

First recorded in 1705–15

Example Sentences

“This incident has been a humbling reminder of the necessity for restraint and self-control, especially in challenging circumstances,” the legislator said.

From BBC

For these men, the appeal seems to be the opportunity to prove their resilience and self-control.

From BBC

He had 44 students perform math and self-control tests five days before the temperature rose, every day during the heat wave, and two days after.

From New York Times

Desmond said the “events that happened were out of my control. I didn’t have any self-control.”

From Seattle Times

Empathy, in other words, leads to motivation and self-control.

From Salon

Related Words

• dignity
• discretion
• poise
• restraint
• reticence
• self-discipline
• sobriety
• stoicism