First Known Use: 13th century
Dictionary
chaste
adjective \ˈchāst\
: not having sex
: morally pure or decent : not sinful
: simple or plain
chast·erchast·est
Full Definition of CHASTE
1
: innocent of unlawful sexual intercourse
2
: celibate
3
: pure in thought and act : modest
4
— chaste·ly adverb
— chaste·ness \ˈchās(t)-nəs\ noun
See chaste defined for English-language learners
See chaste defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of CHASTE
Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin castus pure
Related to CHASTE
Synonym Discussion of CHASTE
chaste, pure, modest, decent mean free from all taint of what is lewd or salacious. chaste primarily implies a refraining from acts or even thoughts or desires that are not virginal or not sanctioned by marriage vows <they maintained chaste relations>. pure differs from chaste in implying innocence and absence of temptation rather than control of one's impulses and actions <the pure of heart>. modest and decent apply especially to deportment and dress as outward signs of inward chastity or purity <preferred more modest swimsuits> <decent people didn't go to such movies>.
CHASTE Defined for Kids
chaste
adjective \ˈchāst\
chast·erchast·est
Learn More About CHASTE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: chasteberryPrevious Word in the Dictionary: ChastacostaAll Words Near: chaste
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up chaste? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).