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celibate

[sel-uh-bit, -beyt] / ˈsɛl ə bɪt, -ˌbeɪt /
ADJECTIVE
abstaining from sexual activity
Synonyms
Antonyms


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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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

Dealing with averages, it is the bare truth to say that no celibate life approaches such a life in point of usefulness, no matter what the motive for the celibacy—religious, philanthropic, political, or professional.

From A Book-Lover's Holidays in the Open by Theodore Roosevelt

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

“If you insist on knowing, you must understand that she probably considers priests ought to be celibates, and therefore looks upon you in no favourable light,” answered the vicar, with some acerbity in his tone.

From Clara Maynard The True and the False - A Tale of the Times by William Henry Giles Kingston




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