asceticism

noun

as·cet·i·cism ə-ˈse-tə-ˌsi-zəm

: the practice of strict self-denial as a measure of personal and especially spiritual discipline : the condition, practice, or mode of life of an ascetic : rigorous abstention from self-indulgence

Sacrifice, renunciation, asceticism, fasting, returning again to God … : these are inclinations fueled as much by instinct as by religious idealism.—

Joyce Carol Oates

Crossing the Atlantic in a small sailboat is an exercise in asceticism, a test of what the human psyche can do without.—

Sarah Ballard

: austerity in appearance, manner, or attitude

His neatly trimmed white beard and runner's physique suggest the asceticism of a mathematics professor, while his questioning mind signals a mistrust of surface impressions.—

Bruce Schoenfeld

In contrast to the chaste asceticism of earlier modernist office towers, the AT&T Building incorporated traditional symbols of imperial power (Roman vaults and arches), prestige (a Chippendale-inspired silhouette), and old money (a huge golden statue in the lobby, which once stood on top of the old AT&T Building).—

Witold Rybczynski

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And, for a population just one generation removed from near-universal poverty, Western celebrations of India’s mystical asceticism hold little appeal. —

Peter Martin, Foreign Affairs, 15 Apr. 2015 Louise tells tales of drunkenness, asceticism, death. —

Yiyun Li, Harper's Magazine, 23 Sep. 2024 The Buddha’s first sermon also described the Middle Way: a balance between the extremes of asceticism and indulgence. —

Shayla Love, The Atlantic, 30 Sep. 2024 Related Articles The store’s interior design is in the direction of minimalist asceticism, though warm elements add balance. —

Alexa Tietjen, WWD, 13 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for asceticism