1. people who abstain from marriage and sexual relations, especially for religious reasons
Usage: plural of celibate

1. third person singular present of celibate; practices celibacy
Usage: rare usage

Examples

• Catholic priests are celibates who have taken vows of chastity.
• The monastery housed dozens of celibates devoted to spiritual life.
• Some religious orders require their members to remain celibates.
• The community of celibates lived simply and focused on prayer.
• Many celibates find fulfillment in serving others.
• The ancient tradition produced generations of devoted celibates.