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Webster 1913 Edition
Ascetic
As-cet′ic
Adj.
[Gr. [GREEK], fr. [GREEK] to exercise, to practice gymnastics.]
Extremely rigid in self-denial and devotions; austere; severe.
The stern
ascetic
rigor of the Temple discipline. Sir W. Scott.
As-cet′ic
,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. Norris.
Ascetic theology
, the science which treats of the practice of the theological and moral virtues, and the counsels of perfection.
Am. Cyc.
Be systematically
ascetic
. . . do . . . something for no other reason than that you would rather not do it. William James.
Webster 1828 Edition
Ascetic
ASCET'IC
,Adj.
Retired from the world; rigid; severe; austere; employed in devotions and mortifications.
ASCET'IC
,Noun.
1.
One who retires from the customary business of life, and devotes himself to the duties of piety and devotion; a hermit; a recluse.2.
The title of certain books, on devout exercises; as the ascetics of St. Basil.