Ascetic

Pronunciation

• IPA: /əˈsÉ›tɪk/
• Rhymes: -É›tɪk

Alternative forms

• ascetick obsolete

Origin

From Ancient Greek ἀσκητικός (askētikos), from ἀσκητής (askētēs, "monk, hermit"), from ἀσκέω (askeō, "I exercise").

Full definition of ascetic

Adjective

1. Of or relating to ascetics; characterized by rigorous self-denial or self-discipline; austere; abstinent; involving a withholding of physical pleasure.
• Sir Walter ScottThe stern ascetic rigor of the Temple discipline.

Noun

1. One who is devoted to the practice of self-denial, either through seclusion or stringent abstinence.

Related terms

• ascetical
• asceticism

Anagrams

• accites