ABSTEMIOUS

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does abstemious mean? 

• ABSTEMIOUS (adjective)
  The adjective ABSTEMIOUS has 2 senses:

1. sparing in consumption of especially food and drink

2. marked by temperance in indulgence

  Familiarity information: ABSTEMIOUS used as an adjective is rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• ABSTEMIOUS (adjective)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Sparing in consumption of especially food and drink

Context example:

the pleasures of the table, never of much consequence to one naturally abstemious

Similar:

abstentious; abstinent (self-restraining; not indulging an appetite especially for food or drink)

ascetic; ascetical; austere; spartan (practicing great self-denial)

Also:

nonindulgent; strict (characterized by strictness, severity, or restraint)

Attribute:

abstemiousness (moderation in eating and drinking)

Antonym:

gluttonous (given to excess in consumption of especially food or drink)

Derivation:

abstemiousness (moderation in eating and drinking)

Sense 2

Meaning:

Marked by temperance in indulgence

Synonyms:

abstemious; light

Context example:

ate a light supper

Similar:

temperate (not extreme in behavior)

Derivation:

abstemiousness (restricted to bare necessities)