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Definition of celibacy

celibacy

/ˈsɛləbəsi/
cel · i · ba · cy
Adjective:celibate
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celibacy Lexical Profile

celibacy Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The state of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, especially because of a religious vow.

Example

"Monks in that monastery take a solemn vow of celibacy upon entering the order."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for celibacy

Word Nuance & Usage

While historically and strictly referring to the state of remaining unmarried (especially for religious vows), in modern everyday usage 'celibacy' is frequently used interchangeably with 'abstinence' to mean refraining from sexual relations.

• Nearby Words

celestially
celia
celiac
celibacy
celibate
cell
cellar

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 17th century from French célibat, from Latin caelibatus ('state of being unmarried'), derived from caelebs ('unmarried, single').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Celibacy. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/celibacy
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