asceticism

/əˈsɛtɪkɪzəm/

Other forms: asceticisms

Asceticism is rigorous self-denial, particularly the rejection of the pleasures of the world. If you don't drink, smoke, eat sugar, see movies, use the internet, or have a cell phone, then you are already practicing a kind of asceticism.

Asceticism comes from the word ascetic, which comes from Greek roots meaning monk, and practice or exercise. Historically, Asceticism was a rigorous, laborious lifestyle, involving the denial of pleasure and rest as a way of expressing spiritual devotion. Now we use asceticism as a synonym for austerity.

Definitions of asceticism

1. noun

   rigorous self-denial and active self-restraint
   synonyms: ascesis

   type of:

   self-control, self-denial, self-discipline

   the act of denying yourself; controlling your impulses
2. noun

   the trait of great self-denial (especially refraining from worldly pleasures)
   synonyms: austerity, nonindulgence

   types:

   monasticism

   asceticism as a form of religious life; usually conducted in a community under a common rule and characterized by celibacy and poverty and obedience

   eremitism

   monasticism characterized by solitude in which the social dimension of life is sacrificed to the primacy of religious experience

   type of:

   self-denial, self-discipline

   the trait of practicing self discipline
3. noun

   the doctrine that through renunciation of worldly pleasures it is possible to achieve a high spiritual or intellectual state
   type of:

   doctrine, ism, philosophical system, philosophy, school of thought

   a belief (or system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group or school