noun. rigorous self-denial and active self-restraint.
noun. the trait of great self-denial (especially refraining from worldly pleasures).
noun. the doctrine that through renunciation of worldly pleasures it is possible to achieve a high spiritual or intellectual state.
1. Noun, singular or mass Buddha became enlightened when he adopted the middle path between a life of riches and comfort and one of and severe asceticism and denial.
