asceticism

Where does the word "asceticism" come from? It comes from Greek askesis, and was adopted directly into English (1640s).

Asceticism’s story begins in Greek: askesis meant “exercise, training.” Exercise, training, especially the rigorous training of athletes. It reached English by 1640s as asceticism. Broadened from athletic training to a life of rigorous self-discipline and abstinence. Today, asceticism means a lifestyle characterized by strict self-discipline and abstention from indulgence.

1. Stage 1 · Greek · ancient askesis "exercise, training", exercise, training, especially the rigorous training of athletes.
2. Stage 2 · English · 1640s asceticism "a life of strict self-discipline and abstinence", broadened from athletic training to a life of rigorous self-discipline and abstinence.