self-mortification

[ self-mawr-tuh-fi-key-shuhn ]

noun
  1. the inflicting of pain or privation on oneself: He was certain that self-mortification was the only road to salvation.

Origin of self-mortification

1
First recorded in 1815–25

Other words from self-mortification

  • self-mor·ti·fied [self-mawr-tuh-fahyd, self-], /ˌsɛlfˈmɔr təˌfaɪd, ˈsɛlf-/, adjective

Words Nearby self-mortification

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

How to use self-mortification in a sentence

  • self-mortification can spring only out of a home-felt principle, and not from the will of another, or of any number of others.

    How to Observe | Harriet Martineau
  • But these very Vedas teach that a man should strive at self-mortification and advancement in virtue with no regard to any reward.

  • Is self-mortification necessary for the attainment of wisdom?

    The Browning Cyclopdia | Edward Berdoe
  • She was of a saintly mind, and showed a genius for self-mortification and fasting, and also for charity to the poor.

  • self-mortification always seems to him to be evidence of moral superiority and to confirm his right to special grievances.

    War-time Silhouettes | Stephen Hudson