noun
- plural of cilice; rough garments or belts worn against the skin as religious penance or self-discipline
Usage: religious; historical
Examples
- The monks wore cilices as part of their spiritual discipline.
- Medieval penitents often used cilices made of coarse animal hair.
- The museum displayed ancient cilices used by religious orders.
- Some ascetics still practice wearing cilices during periods of fasting.
- The rough texture of cilices was intended to cause discomfort.
- Historical accounts describe pilgrims donning cilices before long journeys.