1. The act of refraining from voting or participating in a decision
The senator's abstention on the controversial bill surprised many.
A abstenção do senador sobre o projeto de lei controverso surpreendeu muitos.
2. The practice of voluntarily restraining oneself from something, especially food, drink, or indulgence
Religious abstention from meat is practiced during Lent.
A abstenção religiosa de carne é praticada durante a Quaresma.
3. Legal or formal refusal to take part in proceedings
The judge declared an abstention due to conflict of interest.
O juiz declarou uma abstenção devido a conflito de interesse.