v. i.
Not a few abstained from voting. Macaulay. [ 1913 Webster ]
Who abstains from meat that is not gaunt? Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]
v. t. To hinder; to withhold. [ 1913 Webster ]
Whether he abstain men from marrying. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ]
n. One who abstains; esp., one who abstains from the use of intoxicating liquors. [ 1913 Webster ]