Ascetic
Adjective
Definition: Practicing self-denial; austere.
Definition: Severe or strict in self-discipline and abstinent from indulgences.
Synonyms: Self-disciplined, Abstemious, Spartan
Antonyms: Indulgent, Hedonistic, Extravagant
- The ascetic monk lived a simple, frugal life in the monastery.
- Her ascetic lifestyle consisted of minimal possessions and a strict diet.
- "Ascetic" sounds like "aesthetic," but instead of indulging in worldly pleasures, ascetics focus on inner discipline.
Etymology:
Late Middle English via ecclesiastical Latin from Greek askētikos, from askēsis ‘practice,’ from askein ‘to exercise.’ The term originally denoted a person who led an austere life.
Historical Usage:The word has been used since the late Middle English period to refer to individuals who lived an austere and disciplined lifestyle, usually for religious or philosophical reasons.
Related Idioms:
"Asceticism"
Explanation:Refers to the practice or principles of an ascetic, usually involving abstaining from worldly pleasures and maintaining a strict and disciplined lifestyle.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "ascetic" with "aesthetic."
Explanation:While these words sound similar, they have different meanings. "Ascetic" pertains to a disciplined and self-denying lifestyle, while "aesthetic" relates to beauty, art, and appreciation of artistic value.