ENGLISH
REFERENCE

monastic

adj.
C1 Advanced US //məˈnæstɪk// UK //mənˈɑːstɪk// monas·tic

adj. relating to monks or nuns and their quiet, simple way of living. You use this to describe a life that is very plain and disciplined, often without many comforts.

adj. relating to or characteristic of monks or nuns, or their way of life. Often describes a lifestyle marked by austerity, seclusion, and strict self-discipline.


SIMPLE

He lives a monastic life in a small cabin.

CONTEXTUAL

During the final weeks of his research, he adopted a monastic routine, waking at dawn and avoiding all social distractions.

COMPLEX

The architect's design was praised for its monastic simplicity, using raw concrete and natural light to create a space that felt both modern and spiritually quiet.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle French monastique, from Late Latin monasticus.

Usage

Often used figuratively to describe a secular life of extreme simplicity or intense focus. Frequently appears after linking verbs like 'is' or 'seems'.

© 2026 English Reference