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Glite Dictionary
askesis

askesis

9.9
Strict training of body or mind to become better
  • noun
  • /əˈskiːsɪs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : askesis
  • His journey involved rigorous askesis, helping him achieve a sense of inner peace.

Examples

  • Besides, doesn't somaesthetic concern with pleasure contradict the very idea of strict discipline (askesis) that is so central to classical ethics?

    Academic text (2000)

  • Through askesis, she learned to resist temptations and focus on her personal growth.

  • Such somaesthetic discipline (equally present in the work of Alexander and Feldenkrais as in yoga or Zen) involves, of course, a great deal of intellectual askesis as well.

    Academic text (2000)

  • The monk practiced askesis to cultivate spiritual strength and self-discipline.

Synonyms

asceticism
vsaskesis
  • Formal
3 9.4

A way of living with very strict self-control that avoids pleasure for religious or spiritual reasons

focuses on discipline for improvement without necessarily excluding pleasure
ascesis
vsaskesis
  • Specialized
9.9

A way of living with strict self-control and simple habits for spiritual growth

has the same meaning but is framed more for personal or moral improvement

Antonyms

indulgence
24 6.0

A small pleasure you allow yourself, often without much self-control

How Disciplined

asceticism
  • Formal
3 9.4
askesis
  • Specialized
9.9
training
∞ 1.5
habit
630 1.0

Surface Forms

askesis singular
askeses plural

Etymology

Askesis comes from the Greek word askein, which means 'to exercise' or 'to train', so you can think of it like an 'exercise' for the mind or spirit rather than the body. That's why askesis means strict self-discipline or careful personal training.