asceticism Definition
the practice of severe self-discipline and abstention from all forms of indulgence, typically for religious reasons.
Using asceticism: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "asceticism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The monk's asceticism included fasting and sleeping on a hard floor.
Example
She chose a life of asceticism, living in a small room with few possessions.
Example
The asceticism of the religious order required members to take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
asceticism Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for asceticism
- abstinence
- austerity
- self-denial
- self-discipline
- self-mortification
Antonyms for asceticism
- hedonism
- indulgence
- pleasure-seeking
Phrases with asceticism
ascetic practices
religious or spiritual practices that involve self-discipline and self-denial
Example
The ascetic practices of the monastery included fasting, silence, and manual labor.
Example
He adopted an ascetic lifestyle, giving up his material possessions and living in a small cabin in the woods.
Example
The ascetic ideals of the religious order were based on the teachings of their founder.
Origins of asceticism
from Greek 'askēsis', meaning 'exercise' or 'training'
Summary: asceticism in Brief
'Asceticism' [uh-set-uh-siz-uhm] refers to the practice of severe self-discipline and abstention from all forms of indulgence, typically for religious reasons. It involves practices like fasting, self-mortification, and living a simple life with few possessions. Phrases like 'ascetic practices' and 'ascetic lifestyle' use 'asceticism' to denote religious or spiritual practices that involve self-discipline and self-denial. 'Asceticism' is the opposite of hedonism, which emphasizes pleasure-seeking and indulgence.
