Acemetae

/ˌæs.ɪˈmɛt.i/ noun

Definition

A group of early Christian ascetics who fasted intensely or practiced extreme denial, mentioned in historical religious texts.

Etymology

From Greek a- (without) and metae (beds or resting places), or possibly from aceta (vinegar) and -ae (plural ending). This rare term appears in patristic literature describing early monastic practices.

Kelly Says

The acemetae supposedly lived lives so austere they barely rested, practicing a form of spiritual discipline that even other early monks considered extreme—proof that zealotry existed in ancient Christianity too!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.