Refrain/rɪˈfreɪn/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Self-Control Used when showing self-control or resistance to something tempting. He had to refrain from eating another slice of cake. Pro Tip 2/3Emotional Restraint Expresses emotional restraint in sensitive or intense situations. Despite her anger, she refrained from yelling. Pro Tip 3/3Formal Context Often used in formal or polite requests asking someone not to do something. Please refrain from smoking in the building.