Definition of celibate

The word "celibate" originated from the Latin "celibatus," meaning "unmarried" or "unwedded." This Latin term is derived from "celare," which means "to hide" or "to conceal," and "ubere," meaning "to bear" or "to nourish." In ancient Rome, a celibate person was one who remained unmarried, often to devote themselves to a life of service, spirituality, or intellectual pursuits. The term "celibate" was later adopted into Middle English, where it retained its original meaning. Over time, the word has taken on additional connotations, including the idea of abstaining from sexual activity or romantic relationships. Today, a celibate person is typically someone who chooses to remain single and unmarried, often for religious, spiritual, or personal reasons.