Ascetic

as-set′ik, n. one who rigidly denies himself ordinary sensual gratifications for conscience' sake, one who aims to compa holine through self-mortification, the flesh being considered as the seat of sin, and therefore to be chastened: a strict hermit.— adjs. Ascet′ic , -al , exce ively rigid: austere: recluse.— adv. Ascet′ically .— n. Ascet′icism . [Gr. askētikos (adj. askētēs ), one that uses exercises to train himself— askein , to work, take exercise, ( eccles. ) to mortify the body.]