ˈseləbəsē, -si noun
( -es )
Etymology: Latin caeliba tus celibacy + English -cy
1. : the state of not having a spouse : single life
celibacy can usually be tolerated as a state favorable to education — New Statesman & Nation
2.
a. : abstention from sexual intercourse
b. : chastity ; specifically : the obligation (as of certain priests) not to marry