Definition of abstaining:
(v) :
(intransitive) Refrain from (something or doing something); keep from doing, especially an indulgence.
(v) :
(intransitive) Deliberately refrain from casting one's vote at a meeting where one is present.
(v) :
(transitive, reflexive, obsolete) Keep or withhold oneself.
(v) :
(transitive, obsolete) Hinder; keep back; withhold.
(v) :
(intransitive, obsolete) Fast (not eat for a period).