Which term means to hold back or refrain?

The term "abstain" specifically means to hold back or refrain from an action, particularly in contexts such as voting, indulgences, or behaviors. It implies a conscious choice to avoid participating or engaging in a particular activity. For example, an individual might abstain from voting in an election or from consuming alcohol during a party, demonstrating a deliberate decision to withhold from an option that is available to them.

The other terms present different meanings that do not align with the concept of holding back. "Aberration" refers to a departure from what is normal or typical, often leading to an anomaly. "Abrogate" means to formally repeal or do away with a law or agreement, indicating an action of cancellation rather than restraint. "Abate," on the other hand, means to diminish or reduce in intensity, which is more about decreasing something rather than the act of refraining from it. Thus, the only term that fits the definition of holding back or refraining is "abstain."