noun / verb
discipline
Training that brings conduct under control.
Consistent rules and daily practice help children develop good discipline.
Etymology
The Latin word names teaching or training. Discipline emphasizes the shaping of conduct through that training, including the control and habits it produces.
More examples
- The company disciplines employees who repeatedly ignore safety rules.
- I discipline myself to finish chores before watching television.
- The team maintains its discipline even under pressure.
Forms
discipline · disciplines · disciplined · disciplining
disciplinary adjective — Relating to rules or corrective punishment.
disciplinarian noun — Someone who strictly enforces behavioral rules.
Similar words
- training
- Develops skills or habits, not necessarily control of behavior.
- self-control
- Emphasizes managing one's own impulses rather than externally imposed rules.
- punishment
- Imposes a penalty; discipline can also involve teaching and practice.