a. [ L. abstemius; ab, abs + root of temetum intoxicating drink. ]
Under his special eye
Abstemious I grew up and thrived amain. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ]
Instances of longevity are chiefly among the abstemious. Arbuthnot. [ 1913 Webster ]
Such is the virtue of the abstemious well. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ]
n. The quality of being abstemious, temperate, or sparing in the use of food and strong drinks. It expresses a greater degree of abstinence than temperance. [ 1913 Webster ]