Celibate or Celibat?

Which is correct: celibate or celibat? Let's compare the spellings, meanings, and usage.

Celibat
Incorrect spelling
Celibate
Correct spelling

Summary

Celibate is the correct spelling, meaning abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, typically for religious reasons. Celibat is a common misspelling and is not recognized in standard English.

Definitions

Celibate:Abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, often for religious reasons.
Celibat:(Incorrect) — Not a recognized English word.

Synonyms for Celibate

AbstinentChasteUnmarriedSingle

Notes:

  • "Celibate" is always spelled with an "e" at the end.
  • "Celibat" is a misspelling and should be avoided in all writing.
  • The word "celibate" comes from the Latin "caelibatus".

Frequently Asked Questions

Is "celibat" ever correct?

No, "celibat" is not a correct spelling in English. Always use "celibate".

What does "celibate" mean?

It refers to abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, often for religious reasons.

How do you use "celibate" in a sentence?

Example: "He chose to remain celibate for personal reasons."