celibacy
UK: ˈsɛlɪbəsi | US: ˈsɛləbəsi
n. the state of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, often for religious reasons
n. voluntary abstinence from sexual activity
celibacy = celib<unmarried> + acy<noun suffix>
- celib (from Latin caelebs, meaning "unmarried" or "single")
- acy (a noun-forming suffix indicating a state or condition, from Latin -atia)
Etymology Origin:
The word "celibacy" traces back to the Latin caelebs, which specifically referred to an unmarried man. Over time, it evolved to encompass the broader concept of voluntary abstinence from marriage or sexual relations, particularly in religious contexts (e.g., priestly celibacy). The suffix -acy transforms the root into an abstract noun, denoting the state of being unmarried or abstinent.
Many monks take vows of celibacy as part of their spiritual discipline.
Celibacy was a common practice among early Christian ascetics.
The priest’s celibacy was a lifelong commitment to his faith.
Some people choose celibacy for personal or philosophical reasons.
The debate over mandatory celibacy for clergy continues in some religious traditions.