Abstinence from alcohol (10) Crossword Clue
Answer: TEMPERANCE (10 letters)
The answer to the crossword clue "Abstinence from alcohol" with 10 letters is "TEMPERANCE". Temperance refers to the practice of abstaining from alcohol or any excess, often as a moral or lifestyle choice. It represents self-control and moderation, particularly in relation to alcohol consumption, and has been a key concept in various social and religious movements.
Why “Temperance” Fits
The clue asks for a 10-letter word meaning “abstinence from alcohol.” The answer, TEMPERANCE, fits neatly:
- Abstinence from alcohol: "Temperance" refers to a conscious self-restraint from drinking alcoholic beverages, often as a moral, health, or religious choice.
- Broader concept: Historically, temperance movements advocated for total or partial abstinence, creating significant social and political impact, especially in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
This direct and formal word is the classic description of limiting or completely avoiding alcohol intake.
“Temperance” is integral to social history and moral philosophy:
- Origin: The word comes from Latin “temperantia,” meaning moderation or self-control.
- Movements: The temperance movement swept across Britain, America, and other countries, culminating in policies like alcohol prohibition and the founding of temperance societies.
- Modern use: While temperance originally focused on alcohol, it can apply to moderation in all aspects of life (food, behavior, emotion). “She practices temperance in diet and lifestyle.” “Temperance societies promote alcohol-free events.”
"Temperance" bridges the clue’s meaning of abstention and its wider cultural context.
In quick crosswords, clues like “abstinence from alcohol (10)”:
- Seek formal, long words linked to restraint—“temperance,” “sobriety,” “abstention.”
- The answer length (10) singles out "temperance" as the optimal fit.
- When clues reference moderation and historical social change, “temperance” is a standard, recognizable grid entry.
Spotting the intersection of restraint, history, and clue length quickly leads to “temperance.”