infertilis

Infertilis is a Roman Catholic ecclesiastical title that translates to "childless" or "barren" in Latin. It is a rare canon-law designation that is used in specific circumstances to refer to individuals who have renounced marriage and have chosen a life of celibacy.

In Catholic canon law, a person can be described as infertilis if they have chosen not to have children or are physically unable to conceive. This title is not typically used to characterize someone as incapable of reproducing biologically, but rather to emphasize their decision to remain childless.

The term infertilis is not related to sterility, a medical condition characterized by the absence of fertility. Instead, it is used in a spiritual and ecclesiastical context to distinguish individuals who have made a conscious decision to devote themselves to a life of celibacy.

Historically, the term infertilis was used to describe people, particularly priests and other clergy members, who chose not to marry or have children. This designation was seen as a way to emphasize their commitment to a life of devotion and service to the Church.

In modern times, the term infertilis is no longer commonly used in Catholic canon law. However, it remains an interesting historical reference point that highlights the complexities of Catholic family law and the various ways in which individuals interact with the Church's teachings on marriage and fertility.