celibate

American  

[sel-uh-bit, -beyt] / ˈsɛl ə bɪt, -ˌbeɪt /

noun

1. a person who abstains from sexual relations.

2. a person who remains unmarried, especially for religious reasons.

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adjective

1. observing or pertaining to sexual abstention or a religious vow not to marry.

2. not married.

celibate British  

/ ˈsɛlɪbɪt /

noun

1. a person who is unmarried, esp one who has taken a religious vow of chastity

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adjective

1. unmarried, esp by vow

2. abstaining from sexual intercourse

Other Word Forms

• celibacy noun
• noncelibate adjective
• uncelibate adjective

Etymology

Origin of celibate

First recorded in 1605–15; from Latin caelib- (stem of caelebs ) “unmarried” + -ate ¹

Example Sentences

It stands to reason, then, that a film about Ann Lee, the founding “mother” of this 18th century celibate Christian sect, would be a musical.

From Los Angeles Times

Some had started to feel that he was laying the groundwork to ultimately permit gay men to train for the priesthood, as long as they remained celibate like other priests.

From BBC

Others pointed out that far more people were celibate for reasons that had nothing to do with not finding the right partner.

From Salon

Nienstedt has consistently denied all misconduct allegations leveled against him, insisting that he has remained celibate, and said that he welcomed the investigation.

From Seattle Times

Answering a questioner in Portugal, Francis said those who are gay and not celibate are welcome.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• chaste