Ascetic
Ascetic ({not transcribed}) , adjective
[Greek {not transcribed}, from {not transcribed} to exercise, to practice gymnastics.]
Extremely rigid in self-denial and devotions; austere; severe.
The stern ascetic rigor of the Temple discipline.
Ascetic , noun
In the early church, one who devoted himself to a solitary and contemplative life, characterized by devotion, extreme self-denial, and self-mortification; a hermit; a recluse; hence, one who practices extreme rigor and self-denial in religious things.
I am far from commending those ascetics that take up their quarters in deserts.
Collocations (1)
Ascetic theology , the science which treats of the practice of the theological and moral virtues, and the counsels of perfection. — Am. Cyc