abnegation ab-ni-GAY-shun noun WS #1

the act of renouncing or rejecting something; self-denial or self-sacrifice

1. It was a time of austerity and abnegation.
2. The monk's life is one of strict abnegation, as he renounces material possessions.
3. Her abnegation of comfort was part of her spiritual practice.
4. His abnegation of personal glory allowed others to shine.
5. The leader's abnegation of power surprised everyone.