SELF-RESTRAINT Synonyms: 88 Similar and Opposite Words

self-restraint

noun

ˌself-ri-ˈstrānt

Definition of self-restraint

as in restraint

the power to control one's actions, impulses, or emotions she demonstrated an almost unnatural self-restraint during the fight

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in discipline

the checking of one's true feelings and impulses when dealing with others we must practice self-restraint even with people who are deliberately rude

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of self-restraint A little self-restraint goes a long way today. — Usa Today, USA Today, 7 May 2026 Eid al-Fitr is a time of renewal after Ramadan's month of spiritual cleansing, self-restraint and contemplation and is a joyous time to spend with friends and family. — C. A. Bridges, Oklahoman, 14 Mar. 2026 For the growing Muslim community in the Bay Area, abstaining from eating or drinking during the day is regarded as an act of worship by practicing self-restraint, growing closer to God and empathizing with people who are poor and hungry. — Nollyanne Delacruz, Mercury News, 18 Feb. 2026 The devout see benefits, including practicing self-restraint, cultivating gratitude and empathizing with people who are poor and hungry. — Mariam Fam, Los Angeles Times, 17 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-restraint

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-restraint

Noun

Kitchen also had to develop a little more restraint — something that doesn't always come naturally in a sport where riders are constantly pushing the limits of speed and control.

— Amber Harding OutKick, FOXNews.com, 22 Oct. 2026
Sullivan faces two counts of first-degree kidnapping and a single count each of first-degree assault, first-degree unlawful restraint and intentional cruelty to persons.

— Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 22 Oct. 2026

Definition of restraint

Noun

And his prescription is tighter discipline — a major theme of the four day party meeting.

— Andy Browne, semafor.com, 27 Oct. 2026
Law enforcement and schools districts continually urge parents to warn their children of the consequences of making false or written threats, including facing a felony charge and school discipline.

— Angie DiMichele, Sun Sentinel, 27 Oct. 2026

Definition of discipline

Browse Nearby Words

self-respect

self-restraint

self-revelation

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Style

“Self-restraint.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-restraint. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of self-restraint

noun

Example Sentences

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