abstinence

The story

1. Latin · derived fromabstinentia
2. Old French · derived fromabstinence
3. Middle English · inherited fromabstinence
4. English todayabstinence

From Middle English abstinence, from Old French abstinence, from Latin abstinentia, from abstinēns, present participle of abstineō (“to withhold”). Equivalent to abstain + -ence.

First known use, by meaning

• First attested around 1150 to 1350. The act or practice of abstaining, refraining from indulging a desire or appetite.
• First attested around 1150 to 1350. Specifically, the practice of abstaining from intoxicating/alcoholic beverages; total abstinence; teetotalism).
• First attested around 1150 to 1350. Specifically, the practice of abstaining from sexual intercourse, either permanently or until marriage.
• First attested around 1150 to 1350. Abstention from certain foods on days of penitential observance.
• First attested around 1350 to 1470. The practice of self-denial; self-restraint; forbearance from anything.
• First attested around 1150 to 1350. Self-denial; abstaining; or forbearance of anything.