celibate

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.

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

Some had started to feel that he was laying the groundwork to ultimately permit gay men to train for the priesthood, as long as they remained celibate like other priests.

From BBC • May 27, 2024

Some of their orders permitted marriage, while others were celibate, but all, without distinction, passed an existence of severe asceticism.

From The Mythologies of Ancient Mexico and Peru by Spence, Lewis