celibacy

noun

cel·​i·​ba·​cy ˈse-lə-bə-sē 

1

: the state of not being married

2

a

: abstention from sexual intercourse

b

: abstention by vow from marriage

priestly celibacy

Synonyms of celibacy

• purity
• chastity
• abstinence

Examples of celibacy in a Sentence

a widower who has maintained absolute celibacy since the death of his wife

Recent Examples on the Web

Gunn is in good company in the Hollywood celibacy club. — Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 23 Feb. 2026

With few exceptions, most priests also take a vow of celibacy (married men can become priests in Eastern Rite churches). — Encyclopedia Britannica, 23 Mar. 2026

The group encouraged awareness and emotional discipline, discouraged alcohol and drugs, and demanded celibacy in its early years. — Jp Mangalindan, Time, 1 June 2026

Nearly three centuries later, the Shaker founder could become an unlikely icon for Gen Z, who are bringing celibacy back in staggeringly high numbers, according to a slew of recent studies. — Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 24 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

celibate "state of not being married" (borrowed from Latin caelibātus, from caelebs "not having a spouse, unmarried" + -ātus -ate entry 2) + -acy — more at celibate entry 1

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

celibacy

noun

cel·​i·​ba·​cy ˈsel-ə-bə-sē 

: the state of not being married

especially : the state of one who has taken a vow not to marry