— chastely , adv. — chasteness , n.
/chayst/ , adj., chaster, chastest .
1. refraining from sexual intercourse that is regarded as contrary to morality or religion; virtuous.
2. virgin.
3. not engaging in sexual relations; celibate.
4. free from obscenity; decent: chaste conversation.
5. undefiled or stainless: chaste, white snow.
6. pure in style; not excessively ornamented; simple.
7. Obs. unmarried.
[ 1175-1225; ME castus clean, pure, chaste ]
Syn. 1. continent. 4. clean, elevated. 5. unsullied. 6. unaffected, unadorned, neat; classic; elegant.
Ant. 1. immoral. 4. coarse. 5. debased. 6. ornate.