Abstinence is a commitment to not engaging in sexual activity for a period of time. When it’s done long term the word celibacy is usually used. Abstinence can be limited to a specific sexual practice or all sexual practices, for example someone may choose not to engage in partnered sex but may still choose to masturbate and this would still be considered abstinence.
Linked terms: celibacy
Gillian McInerney (she/they) is a queer femme from Dublin, Ireland. Her interest in lavender linguistics came about accidentally when procrastinating college work in 2013 and Alphabet Soup has grown since then. In their spare time they can be found delivering workshops, cultivating a fabulous jumper collection, and attempting to take a day off.
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