asceticism

[ uh-set-uh-siz-uh m ]
/ əˈsɛt əˌsɪz əm /

noun

the manner of life, practices, or principles of an ascetic.
the doctrine that a person can attain a high spiritual and moral state by practicing self-denial, self-mortification, and the like.
rigorous self-denial; extreme abstinence; austerity.

Origin of asceticism

First recorded in 1640–50; ascetic + -ism

OTHER WORDS FROM asceticism

non·as·cet·i·cism, noun

Example sentences from the Web for asceticism

British Dictionary definitions for asceticism

asceticism
/ (əˈsɛtɪˌsɪzəm) /

noun

the behaviour, discipline, or outlook of an ascetic, esp of a religious ascetic
the principles of ascetic practices, esp in the early Christian Church
the theory and system of ascetic practices

Cultural definitions for asceticism

asceticism
[ (uh-set-uh-siz-uhm) ]

An austere, simple way of life in which persons renounce material pleasures and devote their energy to moral or religious purpose.