1. The practice of restraining oneself from indulging in something, especially alcohol or sexual activity
He practiced abstinence from alcohol for five years.
Ele praticou abstinência de álcool por cinco anos.
2. Self-restraint or self-denial, particularly in religious or moral contexts
The monk's abstinence from worldly pleasures was admirable.
A abstinência do monge dos prazeres mundanos era admirável.
3. Refraining from eating certain foods, as in religious fasting
During Lent, many Catholics observe abstinence from meat.
Durante a Quaresma, muitos católicos observam abstinência de carne.