Ascetic
|as-cet-ic|
/əˈsɛtɪk/
(ascetic)
self-discipline
Etymology
'ascetic' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'asketikos', where 'asketes' meant 'one who practices exercises' and 'askein' meant 'to exercise or train'.
'ascetic' passed into Late Latin as 'asceticus' and then into Ecclesiastical Latin and Middle English, becoming the modern English word 'ascetic'.
Initially it referred to things relating to 'exercise' or 'training'; over time it evolved to mean 'practicing strict self-discipline and abstention (especially for spiritual reasons)'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who practices severe self-discipline and abstains from all forms of indulgence, often for religious or spiritual reasons.
He lived as an ascetic in the mountains for several years.
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Adjective 1
characterized by or suggesting the practice of severe self-discipline and abstention from indulgence; also, very simple or austere in appearance or style.
Her ascetic lifestyle impressed those who knew her before she became famous.
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Last updated: 2026/01/12 15:24