Word of the Day - 09/25/25
ascetic
/ə'sɛtɪk/(adj.): practicing great self-denial
The monks lived an ascetic life, abstaining from all worldly pleasures.
(n.): someone who practices self denial as a spiritual discipline
The old hermit was a true ascetic, spending his days in meditation and fasting.
Word Origin
The word 'ascetic' originates from the Ancient Greek word 'askētēs' (ἀσκητής), meaning "monk, hermit, one who practices ascetic disciplines." This noun was derived from the verb 'askein' (ἀσκεῖν), which meant "to exercise, to train, to practice." Originally, 'askein' was used in the context of the rigorous training and discipline undertaken by athletes. Over time, its meaning evolved to describe the severe self-discipline and abstention practiced for religious or spiritual reasons, leading to the modern understanding of 'ascetic' as someone who practices strict self-denial.