chastity
UK: ˈtʃæstəti | US: ˈtʃæstəti
n. the state or practice of refraining from extramarital or all sexual intercourse
n. moral purity, especially in conduct or speech
n. simplicity or modesty in design or style
chast<pure> + ity<noun suffix>
- chast: Derived from Latin castus (pure, morally clean), later adopted into Old French as chaste.
- ity: A noun-forming suffix from Latin -itas, indicating a state or condition.
Etymology Origin:
The word chastity traces back to the Latin castitas, meaning "purity" or "moral integrity." The root castus reflects ancient societal values around sexual restraint and virtue, particularly in religious and moral contexts. Over time, the Old French chasteté evolved into Middle English chastite, eventually modernizing to chastity. The suffix -ity solidifies its abstract noun form, emphasizing a state of being. The word’s evolution mirrors cultural shifts in defining purity, from physical abstinence to broader ethical conduct.
Medieval nuns took vows of chastity as part of their spiritual commitment.
The novel explores themes of love and chastity in Victorian society.
His speech emphasized the importance of chastity in personal relationships.
The minimalist design of the room reflected a sense of chastity.
She valued chastity not as repression but as a conscious choice for self-respect.