vestal virgin
The term "vestal virgin" originates from ancient Rome, where these women served the goddess Vesta and maintained a vow of chastity.
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Definition
C1Ancient Rome
(historical, religious)A priestess serving the Roman goddess Vesta, tasked with maintaining the sacred fire and performing rituals, who took a vow of chastity.
Example
- The vestal virgins played a crucial role in the religious life of ancient Rome.
- Breaking the vow of chastity was severely punished for a vestal virgin.
C2General
(metaphorical)A woman who remains pure or untouched.
Example
- She was regarded as a vestal virgin, untouched by the corruption around her.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "vestal virgin":