DISCIPLINE - Definition & Meaning for Kids

Simple definitions and word synonyms for kids.

Meaning 1

Part of speech: Verb

develop (children's) behavior by instruction and practice; especially to teach self-control

Example: Parents must discipline their children; Is this dog trained?

Categories: Develop, Make grow

Meaning 2

Part of speech: Verb

punish in order to gain control or enforce obedience

Example: The teacher disciplined the pupils rather frequently

Categories: Punish, Penalize, Penalise

Meaning 3

Part of speech: Noun

the trait of being well behaved

Example: he insisted on discipline among the troops

Categories: Trait

Meaning 4

Part of speech: Noun

training to improve strength or self-control

Categories: Training, Preparation, Grooming

Meaning 5

Part of speech: Noun

the act of punishing

Example: the offenders deserved the harsh discipline they received

Categories: Punishment, Penalty, Penalization, Penalisation

Synonyms

Bailiwick, Subject area, Field of study, Field, Subject field

Antonyms

Indiscipline

🌱 Word Origin (Etymology)

The word "discipline" comes from Proto-Indo-European *dek-. It started in Latin disciplina. Then it appeared in Old French descipline.

🧩 Fun Fact

Each civilization borrowed this word because they encountered the concept through cultural contact.