discipline
dis·ci·pline / ˈdisəplin/ • n. 1. the practice of training people to obey rules or a code of behavior, using punishment to correct disobedience: a lack of proper parental and school discipline. ∎ the controlled behavior resulting from such training: he was able to maintain discipline among his men. ∎ activity or experience that provides mental or physical training: the tariqa offered spiritual discipline | Kung fu is a discipline open to old and young. ∎ a system of rules of conduct: he doesn't have to submit to normal disciplines.2. a branch of knowledge, typically one studied in higher education: sociology is a fairly new discipline.• v. [tr.] train (someone) to obey rules or a code of behavior, using punishment to correct disobedience: many parents have been afraid to discipline their children. ∎ (often be disciplined) punish or rebuke (someone) formally for an offense: a member of the staff was to be disciplined by management. ∎ (discipline oneself to do something) train oneself to do something in a controlled and habitual way: every month discipline yourself to go through the file.DERIVATIVES: dis·ci·plin·a·ble adj.dis·ci·pli·nal / -nəl/ adj.