asceticism

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun the doctrine that through renunciation of worldly pleasures it is possible to achieve a high spiritual or intellectual state
noun the trait of great self-denial (especially refraining from worldly pleasures)
noun rigorous self-denial and active self-restraint

From ascetic + -ism.

Asceticism is a faithful quality. — Robert Orange: Being a Continuation of the History of Robert Orange, John Oliver Hobbes
Morality alone is harsh, not asceticism. — On the Cross: A Romance of the Passion Play at Oberammergau, Wilhelmine von Hillern
Ideals of Life Asceticism Ceremonialism Quietism iv. — India, Its Life and Thought, John P. (John Peter) Jones

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