Time of abstinence

LENT

This 40-day Christian observance precedes Easter and often involves giving something up.

"Lent" is the Christian season of fasting and reflection leading up to Easter, making it a literal "time of abstinence." The clue plays on the religious tradition where believers often give up certain luxuries or habits during this 40-day period. It’s a straightforward definition with no wordplay—just a direct reference to a well-known observance in many Christian denominations.