As a Noun: 1. The practice of making people obey rules by lecturing or punishing them when they do not. English = discipline. 2. The practice of moral instruction. As a Verb or Adjective: 1. To train people to behave or work in a controlled way, especially by punishing them for behaving badly or breaking a rule or lecturing to them seriously about their behaviour. English = discipline. 2. To teach or instruct people about morals and good behaviour.