as in purity
abstention from sexual intercourse
a widower who has maintained absolute celibacy since the death of his wife
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Recent Examples of celibacy
The Shakers — only two members remain, largely due to the sect’s dedication to celibacy — became known for their utilitarian design and architecture that prioritized functionality, simplicity and craftsmanship.
—
Alex Ritman, Variety, 22 Aug. 2025
And celibacy, as Christ was celibate.
—Khaleda Rahman, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Aug. 2025
Frayne writes that some second- and third-century sects, such as the Encratites, Priscilliantists, and Manicheans, advocated against meat eating, typically as part of a broader asceticism that might also include celibacy.
—Livia Gershon, JSTOR Daily, 4 Aug. 2025
Buddhist monks in China have traditionally been expected to take a vow of celibacy.
—Nectar Gan, CNN Money, 28 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for celibacy
Alex Ritman, Variety, 22 Aug. 2025
And celibacy, as Christ was celibate.
—Khaleda Rahman, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Aug. 2025
Frayne writes that some second- and third-century sects, such as the Encratites, Priscilliantists, and Manicheans, advocated against meat eating, typically as part of a broader asceticism that might also include celibacy.
—Livia Gershon, JSTOR Daily, 4 Aug. 2025
Buddhist monks in China have traditionally been expected to take a vow of celibacy.
—Nectar Gan, CNN Money, 28 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for celibacy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for celibacy
Noun
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These standards allow consumers to see purity and authenticity in writing that is increasingly important in this category.—
Footwear News,
Footwear News,
12 Sep. 2025
-
One Water is not asking consumers to compromise between purity, style, or efficiency.—
Malana VanTyler,
USA Today,
12 Sep. 2025
Noun
-
The title that has become attached to the painting over time curiously characterizes the Virgin Mary by the fruit, perhaps in recognition of her chastity, especially when considered in the context of Persephone’s myth.—
Demir Alp,
JSTOR Daily,
29 Aug. 2025
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Some do it because they are caged for some reason or another and haven’t figured how to pop their cork while in chastity.—
Mikelle Street,
Them.,
19 Aug. 2025
Noun
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Since a key tenet of the Shakers was lifelong abstinence, those numbers have naturally dwindled.—
Barry Levitt,
Time,
10 Sep. 2025
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The Catholic Church believes intercourse should only happen between married couples and teaches abstinence for all others.—
Ladan Anoushfar,
CNN Money,
1 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Celibacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/celibacy. Accessed 17 Sep. 2025.
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