The meaning of ABSTAIN is to choose not to do or have something : to refrain deliberately and often with an effort of self-denial from an action or practice. How to use abstain in a sentence. Did you know? abstain meaning , definition , what is abstain : to choose not to vote for or against som...: Learn more. Definition of Abstain in the Definitions.net dictionary. Meaning of Abstain . What does Abstain mean ? Information and translations of Abstain in the most comprehensive dictionary definitions resource on the web. Definition of abstain verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning , pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.