celibacy
[sel-uh-buh-see]
- abstention from sexual relations.
- abstention by vow from marriage: the celibacy of priests.
- the state of being unmarried.
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Origin of celibacy
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for celibacy
Contemporary Examples
Do you think that if the rules on celibacy were loosened, this would change things considerably?
Alex Gibney’s ‘Mea Maxima Culpa’: Sex, Lies, and the Catholic ChurchMichael Moynihan
February 4, 2013
First undergo a rectal exam, celibacy lecture, and waiting period.
State Pols Outraged by Anti-Abortion Laws Push Onerous Restrictions on ViagraAllison Yarrow
March 14, 2012
I had decided that celibacy was the way to go when I met a fellow combat arms officer, who was gay.
Historical Examples
Such are the ideas which have given rise to the obligation of celibacy for priests.
The Sexual QuestionAugust Forel
What are their vows of celibacy but conspiracies against us poor women?
The Eternal CityHall Caine
Although it sounds paradoxical, yet there is a celibacy that is distinctly erotic.
Sex=The Unknown QuantityAli Nomad
The celibacy of the clergy should, in like manner, be forthwith granted.
The Rise of the Hugenots, Vol. 1 (of 2)Henry Martyn Baird
It appears that many are opposed to celibacy of the clergy and auricular confession.
The Philippine IslandsJohn Foreman
Word Origin and History for celibacy
n.
1660s, formed in English, with -cy + Latin caelibatus "state of being unmarried," from caelebs "unmarried," probably from PIE root *kaiwelo- "alone" + lib(h)s- "living."
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Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper