Ab·stain v. i. [imp. & p. p. Abstained p. pr. & vb. n. Abstaining.] To hold one's self aloof; to forbear or refrain voluntarily, and especially from an indulgence of the passions or appetites; -- with from.
Not a few abstained from voting. --Macaulay.
Who abstains from meat that is not gaunt? --Shak.
Syn: -- To refrain; forbear; withhold; deny one's self; give up; relinquish.