Monastic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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monastic
[məˈnæs.tɪk ]
Definitions
religious community
Relating to or characteristic of monks or nuns, their way of life, or their buildings.
Synonyms
cloistered, monasticism, monk-like.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| monastic |
Refers to things related to monks or monasteries; often used to describe lifestyles or settings that are simple, disciplined, and secluded.
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| monk-like |
Describes behavior or characteristics reminiscent of a monk, such as simplicity, discipline, and dedication. It can be used in a more informal or metaphorical sense.
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| monasticism |
Refers to the religious way of life in which one renounces worldly pursuits to fully devote oneself to spiritual work, often within a monastery.
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| cloistered |
Describes a life of seclusion, typically within a monastery. It can also be used metaphorically for living in isolation from the outside world.
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Examples of usage
- Monastic discipline is strict and focused on spiritual growth.
- The monastic lifestyle involves celibacy and poverty.
- Monastic architecture includes simple, functional designs.
religious community
A member of a religious community of monks or nuns, typically living under vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| monastic |
This term refers to anything related to monastic life, usually associated with monks or nuns living under religious vows. It can describe practices, buildings, or lifestyles.
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| monk |
Use this word to describe a male member of a religious community who lives under vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, often in a monastery.
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| nun |
This term is used to describe a female member of a religious community living under vows, similar to monks. Nuns often live in convents.
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| friar |
This term is specifically used to describe a member of certain religious orders within the Catholic Church, such as the Franciscans or Dominicans. Friars typically live and work within the community, rather than in a monastery.
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Examples of usage
- The monastery had over fifty monastics living in seclusion.
- She decided to become a monastic after a spiritual awakening.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- Monasticism began in the 3rd century AD, with early Christians choosing solitude and prayer as a response to societal pressures.
- Famous monastic communities like those founded by St. Benedict shaped Western monastic life and influenced educational systems throughout Europe.
Cultural Impact
- Monastic communities often became centers of education and learning, preserving ancient texts during the Middle Ages.
- In several cultures, monastic traditions have led to the establishment of fine arts, including music and illuminated manuscripts.
Philosophy
- Monastic life emphasizes simplicity, silence, and reflection, teaching followers to focus on inner peace and spirituality.
- Many philosophies, including Buddhism, have similar practices where monks seek enlightenment through meditation and detachment.
Modern Relevance
- Today, various forms of monasticism exist around the world, including Christian monks, Buddhist monks, and Hindu sannyasis.
- Some modern movements integrate monastic principles for personal growth, focusing on mindfulness and community living.
Origin of 'monastic'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'monachos', meaning 'single' or 'alone', highlighting the solitary nature of some religious practices.
- It evolved through Latin as 'monasticus', reflecting its connection to a life dedicated to spiritual activities.
The word 'monastic' originates from the Late Latin word 'monasticus', which in turn comes from the Greek word 'monastikos', meaning 'solitary'. The concept of monasticism has its roots in the early Christian desert hermits who sought solitude and prayer. Monastic communities later developed as centers of learning and spirituality in various religious traditions.