Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈsɛlɪbəsi/

Definitions

• The state of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, typically for religious or spiritual reasons.
• The voluntary choice to remain unmarried, often for religious, personal, or philosophical reasons.
• Abstinence from all forms of sexual activity, often associated with vows taken by clergy or religious individuals.

Usage Examples

• The monk chose celibacy as part of his spiritual journey.
• Many religious leaders practice celibacy to dedicate their lives fully to their faith.
• She decided to live in celibacy, focusing on her career and personal growth.

Etymology

From the Latin word "caelibatus," meaning "single" or "unmarried," which derives from "caelebs," meaning "unmarried" or "single."

Synonyms

• Abstinence
• Chastity
• Purity
• Celibate state

Antonyms

• Marriage
• Sexual activity
• Conjugal life

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some regions, especially in English-speaking countries, the pronunciation of "celibacy" can vary slightly, with accents influencing the vowel sounds.

Historical Usage

Celibacy has been practiced for centuries, particularly within religious and spiritual communities. In Christianity, celibacy was often associated with the priesthood, while in Buddhism, celibacy is a key practice for monks and nuns. Celibacy has also been observed in other religions, such as Hinduism, where monks take vows of celibacy as part of their ascetic lifestyle.

Cultural Nuances

In different cultures, celibacy may be viewed as either a spiritual commitment, a personal choice, or a social expectation. For example, in some religious contexts, celibacy is seen as a means to purify the mind and soul, while in others, it may be seen as a lifestyle choice unrelated to spirituality. In modern society, celibacy may be practiced for reasons beyond religion, including personal preference or the desire to focus on other aspects of life.

More Information

Celibacy is the practice of abstaining from marriage and sexual relationships, often for religious, personal, or spiritual reasons. Many religious traditions, such as Christianity, Buddhism, and Hinduism, promote celibacy as an ideal for those who seek spiritual enlightenment. It is considered a means to redirect energy towards higher purposes, such as prayer, meditation, or serving others. In modern times, celibacy may also be a choice made for personal reasons, such as focusing on career, personal development, or avoiding the complexities of romantic relationships. While celibacy is often linked to religious figures like priests, monks, and nuns, it is increasingly being practiced by individuals outside of religious contexts as well.