Ascetic
As·cet·ic
Ascetic
a.
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Extremely rigid in self-denial and devotions; austere; severe.
The stern ascetic rigor of the Temple discipline.
Ascetic
n.
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In the early church, one who devoted himself to a solitary and contemplative life, characterized by devotion, extreme self-denial, and self-mortification; a hermit; a recluse; hence, one who practices extreme rigor and self-denial in religious things.
I am far from commending those ascetics that take up their quarters in deserts.
Phrases & Compounds
- Ascetic theology
- the science which treats of the practice of the theological and moral virtues, and the counsels of perfection.