# fasting

/ˈfæstɪŋ/ (US) · /fˈɑːstɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fasting
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. religious or health practice

noun · CEFR B2

the act of choosing not to eat for a certain time, often to follow religious rules or to improve your health.

For teachers: the voluntary abstinence from food or drink for a specified period, commonly practiced as a religious rite or a dietary regimen.

- Fasting is an important part of many religions during certain times of the year.
- The study suggests that intermittent fasting may improve metabolic health by allowing the body to regulate insulin levels more effectively.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the general practice.

## Examples

- Fasting is a common practice during certain religious holidays.
- The doctor recommended intermittent fasting to help the patient manage their blood sugar levels more effectively.
- While some cultures view fasting as a means of spiritual purification, modern clinical research often focuses on the metabolic benefits of restricted eating windows.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.