Meaning of the word "Refrain from" in English

What does "Refrain from" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

Refrain from

US /rɪˈfreɪn frɒm/
UK /rɪˈfreɪn frɒm/

Phrasal Verb

to avoid doing or stop yourself from doing something

Example:
Please refrain from smoking in this area.
She could not refrain from laughing at his joke.