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

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

From Slate ● Sep. 25, 2025

I decided to spend some time celibate, to abstain not only from sex but also all the attendant activities, including dating and even flirting.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 8, 2024

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

"Papa was always against a celibate clergy," said Miss Amy, as if that settled the question.

From Notwithstanding by Mary Cholmondeley

It's also driven by the same sort of insecurity about masculinity that underlies the so-called Men's Rights Movement and the increasingly dangerous and self-destructive cult of self-described "involuntary celibates," or incels.

From Salon ● Oct. 26, 2021

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

The followers of Caitanya at the present day are said to be divided into Gosains, or ecclesiastics, who are the descendants of the founder's original disciples, the Vrikats or celibates, and the laity.

From Hinduism and Buddhism, An Historical Sketch, Vol. 2 by Sir Charles Eliot