Definition

A person, especially in early Christianity, who practiced severe self-discipline and lived on top of a tall pillar as a form of asceticism.

Example

The stylite spent years on the pillar, dedicating his life to prayer and meditation.

Conversation

Have you ever read about the life of a stylite?

Yeah, it’s fascinating how they lived on top of pillars for years!

I can’t imagine how challenging that must have been, physically and mentally.

Right? It takes a lot of dedication to choose such an extreme lifestyle.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stylite → It is derived from the Greek word "stulos" (meaning pillar) combined with the suffix "-ite" (meaning one who is associated with or connected to). The term refers to a person who lives on a pillar, particularly in the context of early Christian ascetics who sought solitude and spiritual elevation by residing atop columns.

Memory Tip

Imagine someone living on a 'pillar' ('stulos') to remember that a 'stylite' is a person associated with this unique way of ascetic living.

Visually Confused Words