Celibate Meaning and Definition
Celibate
Pronunciation
/ˈsɛlɪbeɪt/
Part of Speech
Noun/Adjective
Definition
A person who remains unmarried and abstains from all sexual activity, often for religious or spiritual reasons, or a person who practices self-denial, especially in the form of abstaining from sexual pleasure.
Examples
1. “The monk chose a celibate lifestyle, devoting his life to prayer and contemplation.”
2. “As a nun, she vowed to remain celibate for the remainder of her life.”
Synonyms
1. Chaste
2. Ascetic
3. Virtuous
Antonyms
1. Promiscuous
2. Hedonistic
3. Libertine
Additional Information
The practice of celibacy is often associated with spiritual or religious disciplines, such as monasticism, where the focus is on devotion, prayer, and service, rather than physical desires or worldly pursuits. Celibacy can also be a personal choice, motivated by a desire to prioritize spiritual growth or to conserve energy for creative pursuits. In some cultures, celibacy is seen as a means to achieve spiritual enlightenment, self-awareness, or personal fulfillment. However, it can also be a challenging and potentially isolating lifestyle, requiring discipline, commitment, and a supportive community.
Historically, the concept of celibacy has been linked to the mythology of the ” sacred marriage,” where the celibate is thought to be wedded to a higher power or a divine principle, rather than a human partner. This understanding of celibacy has been present in various cultures and traditions, including ancient Greece, where the priestesses of Athena were expected to remain chaste, and in early Christian communities, where celibacy was viewed as a spiritual ideal.
Etymology
The word “celibate” comes from the Latin “caelebs,” meaning “unmarried” or “single,” which is derived from the word “caelum,” meaning “heaven” or “sky.” This etymology reflects the historical association of celibacy with spiritual pursuits and the idea of transcending worldly desires.
Usage Notes
When using the term “celibate,” it is essential to be sensitive to cultural and personal contexts. Celibacy can be a deeply meaningful and fulfilling lifestyle choice for some individuals, while for others, it may be seen as restrictive or oppressive. It is also important to distinguish between voluntary celibacy and enforced celibacy, which can be a form of oppression or control.
Cultural References
The theme of celibacy has appeared in various cultural works, such as the novel “The Name of the Rose” by Umberto Eco, which explores the tensions between spirituality and desire in a medieval monastery. The film “The Cloister” (2016) also explores the tension between spirituality and desire in a group of monks.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Celibacy is not just about avoiding sex; it’s a way of life.”
2. “A life of celibacy is not for everyone, but for some, it is a calling.”
Collocations
1. “Vow of celibacy”
2. “Life of celibacy”
3. “Celibate monk”
Frequency of Use
The word “celibate” is relatively rare in everyday conversation but is often used in discussions of spirituality, religion, or personal relationships.
Common Misspellings
1. Ceibeat
2. Caelibate
3. Cellebate