self-restraint

[ self-ri-streynt, self- ]

/ ˈsɛlf rɪˈstreɪnt, ˌsɛlf- /

restraint imposed on one by oneself; self-control.

Origin of self-restraint

First recorded in 1765–75

self-re·strained, adjective self-re·strain·ing, adjective

Perhaps he had congratulated himself for his self-restraint in avoiding real adultery, real manipulation of women.

Why There Will Always Be Weiners |Lee Siegel |June 17, 2011 |DAILY BEAST
This practice of self-restraint, called jishuku in Japanese, has become quite commonplace here in recent days.

Japan Aftershock: The Nation's Rattled Nerves |Sonia Narang |April 7, 2011 |DAILY BEAST
Gentle persons, breaking from the lines of self-restraint, run to a curious violence in emotion.

The History of Sir Richard Calmady |Lucas Malet
She had learned thoroughly the lesson of patience and of self-restraint, and she resolved for the present to continue to teach.

Mary Wollstonecraft |Elizabeth Robins Pennell

The fatallest furies of scientific are consistent with the most noble powers of self-restraint and self-sacrifice.

The Eagle's Nest |John Ruskin
Resignation and self-restraint are admirable qualities, but admirable in proportion to the force of the opposing temptation.

Hours in a Library |Leslie Stephen
Also, it is to be noted that great powers of self-restraint may be attained by very vulgar persons, when it suits their purposes.

Modern Painters, Volume V (of 5) |John Ruskin

self-restraint

restraint imposed by oneself on one's own feelings, desires, etc