as in purity
abstention from sexual intercourse a widower who has maintained absolute celibacy since the death of his wife

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of celibacy Sky News reported that the Thai government has now vowed to expand its investigation as concern about monks breaking celibacy vows has grown across the country. Sean Neumann, People.com, 17 July 2025 Febos spoke with Life Kit about the surprising gifts of celibacy. Brittney Melton, NPR, 16 July 2025 In this way, celibacy was part of the long tradition of all feminist practices. Hazlitt, 11 June 2025 These figures became my family during my celibacy, and still feel that way. Sarah Viren june 4, Literary Hub, 4 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for celibacy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for celibacy
Noun
  • Shrines appear on corners, balconies, and walls, quietly imposing ideals of purity, sacrifice, and silence.
    Vogue, Vogue, 5 Sep. 2025
  • If something challenges your heart and your soul and your mind and your sense of purity of what is right and wrong in the world, then just say no.
    Jack Irvin, PEOPLE, 4 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
  • 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
  • The Catholic Church believes intercourse should only happen between married couples and teaches abstinence for all others.
    Ladan Anoushfar, CNN Money, 1 Sep. 2025
  • The grants are used to teach adolescents about abstinence and contraception.
    Geoff Mulvihill, Fortune, 29 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Celibacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/celibacy. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

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