celibate

A meetinghouse stood at the center of every village created by the Shakers, the separatist and celibate Christian religious sect founded in the 18th century that was devoted to communal living and simple, functional design.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 4, 2026

It stands to reason, then, that a film about Ann Lee, the founding “mother” of this 18th century celibate Christian sect, would be a musical.

From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 24, 2025

Ultimately, Sam decided to be celibate and invest in their fantasy life with their partner.

From Slate ● Sep. 25, 2025

Others pointed out that far more people were celibate for reasons that had nothing to do with not finding the right partner.

From Salon ● May 15, 2024

By instinct and principle he was a confirmed celibate: “Fortune, talent, health,—he had everything; but he was married,” was his lamentation over a friend.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 12, Slice 1 "Gichtel, Johann" to "Glory" by Various

Rodger belonged to a growing online community of men who identify as involuntary celibates, or “incels”.

From The Guardian ● Oct. 19, 2020

They also cannot remarry if their wives die, and must spend the rest of their priestly lives as celibates.

From Seattle Times ● Feb. 14, 2020

Unlike Islamic State jihadists and white supremacists, incels — short for involuntary celibates — are not, as a group, preaching hatred by promising a path to redemption or salvation through violence.

From New York Times ● Aug. 9, 2019

To some extent it’s not difficult to understand the allure—after all, there aren’t many celibates or absolute monarchs left, let alone one who can claim the allegiance of a billion people.

From Slate ● Mar. 12, 2014

"This must have been the curriculum for their celibates," we may fancy him concluding: "I perceive here an elaborate preparation for many things, but I find no reference whatever to the bringing up of children."

From How to be Happy Though Married Being a Handbook to Marriage by Hardy, Edward John