Monachism, also known as monasticism, refers to the practice of living in a secluded community to devote oneself to spiritual pursuits. There are numerous synonyms for the word monachism, including asceticism, cenobitism, conventualism, eremitism, anchoritism, and reclusion. Asceticism involves strict self-discipline and abstinence from worldly pleasures. Cenobitism is a form of monachism where individuals live communally in a religious community. Conventualism refers to monasticism practiced by nuns or in a convent. Eremitism, also known as hermitism, involves living in solitude in a remote location. Anchoritism entails withdrawing from the world into a small room or cell. Reclusion is a synonym for monachism that simply refers to the act of living in seclusion.