Definition of: discipline

(dis′ə·plin) noun
1. Systematic training or subjection to authority; especially, the training of the mental, moral, and physical powers by instruction and exercise.
2. The result of this; subjection; habit of obedience.
3. Training resulting from misfortune, troubles, etc.
4. Punishment for the sake of training; correction; chastisement.
5. A system of rules, or method of practice, as of a church.
6. The studies collectively embraced in a course of learning.
7. The self–scourging of some ascetics of the Roman Catholic Church; also, a scourge. See synonyms under EDUCATION.
—v.t. ·plined, ·plin·ing
1. To train to obedience or subjection.
2. To drill; educate.
3. To punish or chastise. See synonyms under CHASTEN, TEACH. [<OF <L disciplina instruction <discipulus DISCIPLE]
—dis′ci·plin·a·ble adjective
—dis′ci·plin·er noun