self-restraint

[ self-ri-streynt, self- ]

noun

1. restraint imposed on one by oneself; self-control.

self-restraint

noun

1. restraint imposed by oneself on one's own feelings, desires, etc

Other Words From

• self-re·strained adjective
• self-re·straining adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-restraint¹

First recorded in 1765–75

Example Sentences

It was like a bad episode of Dance Moms, only with fewer sequins and less self-restraint.

From The Daily Beast

Perhaps he had congratulated himself for his self-restraint in avoiding real adultery, real manipulation of women.

From The Daily Beast

This practice of self-restraint, called jishuku in Japanese, has become quite commonplace here in recent days.

From The Daily Beast

The concept of impulse control comes from a better understanding of the brain mechanisms that underlie self-restraint.

From The Daily Beast

Temperance and self-restraint were therefore his favourite virtues.

From Project Gutenberg

Steve took it all good-naturedly, but Jarvis had to exercise great self-restraint to keep himself in check.

From Project Gutenberg

Exhausted at her efforts at self-restraint during the presence of Clameran, she felt weary and crushed in body and spirit.

From Project Gutenberg

It is much to have learnt the discipline, self-restraint, endurance and patience which soldiering demands.

From Project Gutenberg

As, however, you appear to doubt our powers of self-restraint, we will relieve your mind by going without them.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• moderation