sobriety Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the state of being sober and not intoxicated by alcohol
    soberness.
  2. noun moderation in or abstinence from alcohol or other drugs
    dryness.
  3. noun a manner that is serious and solemn
    graveness; gravity; soberness; sombreness; somberness.
  4. noun abstaining from excess
    temperance.

WordNet

So*bri"e*ty noun
Etymology
L. sobrietas: cf. F. sobriété. See Sober.
Definitions
  1. Habitual soberness or temperance as to the use of spirituous liquors; as, a man of sobriety.
    Public sobriety is a relative duty. Blackstone.
  2. Habitual freedom from enthusiasm, inordinate passion, or overheated imagination; calmness; coolness; gravity; seriousness; as, the sobriety of riper years.
    Mirth makes them not mad, Nor sobriety sad. Denham.
    Syn. -- Soberness; temperance; abstinence; abstemiousness; moderation; regularity; steadness; calmness; coolness; sober-mindeness; sedateness; staidness; gravity; seriousness; solemnity.

Webster 1913