Celibate: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used when referring to someone who has taken a vow to abstain from marriage and sexual relations, often for religious reasons.

• He decided to remain celibate to focus on his spiritual journey
• The monk led a celibate life

Simply refers to someone who is not currently married. It does not imply anything about their sexual activity or moral choices.

• At the age of 35, she was still unmarried
• The event was attended by many unmarried guests

Often used to describe someone who remains pure in both thought and behavior, usually in a sexual context but can extend to general moral purity.

• They had a chaste relationship, focusing on emotional and spiritual connection
• Her writings glorified the virtues of a chaste life

Used when referring to someone who refrains from indulging in certain activities or substances, often for moral, health, or personal reasons. It can apply to various abstentions, not just sexual.

• He chose to live an abstinent lifestyle, avoiding alcohol completely
• She has been abstinent from sweets for a year

Generally used in a religious context to describe a person who has taken a vow to abstain from marriage and sexual relations, often associated with members of religious orders.

• The priest took a vow to remain celibate for life.
• Monks and nuns often live celibate lives as a part of their religious commitments.

Refers to a male member of a religious community who often lives in a monastery and has taken vows of poverty, chastity (celibacy), and obedience.

• The monk spends most of his days in prayer and meditation.
• Monks in the monastery rise early for morning prayers.

Refers to a female member of a religious community who often lives in a convent and has taken vows of poverty, chastity (celibacy), and obedience.

• The nun dedicated her life to helping the poor and needy.
• At the convent, the nuns follow a strict daily routine of prayer and community service.

Typically used to refer to someone who abstains from certain activities or substances, not necessarily limited to sexual activity. It could be used for abstinence from alcohol, smoking, or other behaviors.

• John is an abstainer when it comes to drinking alcohol.
• As an abstainer, she avoids all forms of gambling.