celibacy

[ sel-uh-buh-see ]

noun

1. abstention from sexual relations.
2. abstention by vow from marriage:

   the celibacy of priests.

3. the state of being unmarried.

Other Words From

• cel·i·bat·ic [sel-, uh, -, bat, -ik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of celibacy¹

First recorded in 1655–65; from Latin caelibā(tus) “celibacy” ( caelib-, stem of caelebs “single” + -ātus -ate ³ ) + -cy

Example Sentences

On your mark, get set . . . celibacy?

From Salon

Traditionally, older folks worried that young people were too promiscuous; now perhaps we geezers should fret about youthful celibacy.

From Seattle Times

Yes, there was the ad campaign that appeared to shame women who choose celibacy—which the company wisely retracted this week.

From Slate

The new marketing campaign launched two weeks ago instead used billboards and other ads that targeted and shamed celibacy, resulting in a strong, negative response from users and women online.

From Salon

The ads seem to be addressing a growing cultural dating trend where people, mostly young women, are engaging in voluntary celibacy, citing disillusionment with online dating and hookup culture.

From Salon

Related Words

• chastity