self-control

noun

self-con·​trol ˌself-kən-ˈtrōl How to pronounce self-control (audio)
: restraint exercised over one's own impulses, emotions, or desires
self-controlled adjective

Examples of self-control in a Sentence

toddlers have very little self-control she could be passionate and intense, but generally exercised steely self-control in the company of strangers
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
During Ramadan, fasting each day from dawn to dusk teaches us discipline and self-control. Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Mar. 2025 Chatbots can be engineered by teams of experts intent on programming them to be as responsive and empathetic as possible — the psychological version of scientists designing the perfect Dorito that destroys any attempt at self-control. Angela Chen, Vox, 26 Mar. 2025 The members of the team individually and collectively have to own their own self-control and mental toughness, with the freedom to adapt as appropriate and needed. George Bradt, Forbes, 24 Mar. 2025 For instance, trust will be eroded when a person demonstrates a lack of temperance, which manifests as being agitated, impatient, inattentive, rash, and anxious instead of being composed, patient, prudent, self-controlled, and calm. Mary Crossan, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for self-control

Word History

First Known Use

1653, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-control was in 1653

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Cite this Entry

“Self-control.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-control. Accessed 10 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

self-control

noun
self-con·​trol
ˌself-kən-ˈtrōl
: control over one's own impulses, emotions, or acts
self-controlled
-ˈtrōld
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on self-control

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