adj
vestal
VEHS-tl
Vestal (adj) means Chaste and pure, especially associated with virginity or purity. Example: “She lived a quiet, almost vestal existence, avoiding the spotlight entirely.”
adj
1
Chaste and pure, especially associated with virginity or purity.
"She lived a quiet, almost vestal existence, avoiding the spotlight entirely."
noun
1
In ancient Rome, one of the virgin priestesses who tended the sacred fire of the goddess Vesta.
"A vestal who broke her vow of chastity faced severe punishment."
How to use vestal
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRelating to Vesta, or describing someone (traditionally a priestess) who is chaste and pure.
Common pairings
a vestal virgin
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Word forms
- Plural
- vestals
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She lived a quiet, almost _____ existence, avoiding the spotlight entirely.
Etymology
From Latin Vestalis, "belonging to Vesta", the Roman goddess of the hearth.
Related words
Rhymes for vestal
See all rhymes for vestal →Frequently asked questions
What does “vestal” mean?
The word “vestal” means chaste and pure, especially associated with virginity or purity. In plain terms, relating to Vesta, or describing someone (traditionally a priestess) who is chaste and pure.
How do you pronounce “vestal”?
“Vestal” is pronounced VEHS-tl (/ˈvɛs.t(ə)l/ in IPA).
How do you use “vestal” in a sentence?
Here is “vestal” used in a sentence: “She lived a quiet, almost vestal existence, avoiding the spotlight entirely.”
What part of speech is “vestal”?
Depending on how it is used, “vestal” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “vestal” come from?
The word “vestal” comes from Latin. From Latin Vestalis, "belonging to Vesta", the Roman goddess of the hearth.
How many meanings does “vestal” have?
“Vestal” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: chaste and pure, especially associated with virginity or purity.
