discipline
|dis/ci/pline|
🇺🇸
/ˈdɪsəplɪn/
🇬🇧
/ˈdɪsɪplɪn/
self-control
Etymology
'discipline' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'disciplina', where 'discere' meant 'to learn' and 'discipulus' meant 'learner' or 'pupil'.
'discipline' passed into Old French and Middle English as 'discipline' (from Latin 'disciplina') and developed into the modern English word 'discipline'.
Initially it meant 'instruction, teaching, or knowledge', but over time it broadened to include 'training for self-control', 'orderly behavior', and 'punishment' in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
training that develops self-control, orderliness, and acceptable behavior.
Good discipline at home helps children learn responsibility.
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Noun 2
punishment imposed to correct behavior.
The school uses detentions as a form of discipline.
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Noun 3
a field of study or branch of knowledge (an academic discipline).
Psychology is an academic discipline that studies behavior and mind.
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Verb 1
to train or develop by instruction and exercise, often to produce self-control.
Parents try to discipline young children to teach good habits.
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Last updated: 2025/09/26 05:59