self-control

[self-kuhn-trohl, self-]

noun

1. control or restraint of oneself or one's actions, feelings, etc.

   Synonyms: levelheadedness, willpower, self-restraint, self-discipline

self-control

noun

1. the ability to exercise restraint or control over one's feelings, emotions, reactions, etc

Other Word Forms

• self-controlled adjective
• self-controlling adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-control¹

First recorded in 1705–15

Example Sentences

New York magazine described him as "notoriously disciplined" and "dedicated to a self-control and self-containedness that can come off as coolness".

From BBC

It cited the brutal nature of the killings and Lyle's lack of self-control.

From BBC

Rather, this a lean showdown between self-control and gluttony, between our modest heroes and a greedy titan.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Mosquera has admitted the manslaughter of Mr Alfonso by way of loss of self-control, but denies both charges of murder.

From BBC

However the judge told Prosper that any condition did not "impair your ability to understand the nature of your conduct, exercise self-control or form rational judgments when you decided to commit violent crimes".

From BBC

Related Words

• dignity 
• discretion 
• poise 
• restraint 
• reticence 
• self-discipline 
• sobriety 
• stoicism