jeûne

Jeûne is the French term for fasting, the voluntary abstention from all or some foods and drinks for a defined period. It can be undertaken for religious, spiritual, health, or ceremonial reasons, and may involve complete abstinence or restriction to certain foods or liquids.

The word derives from Old French jeune, from Latin ieiunium, meaning fasting. In French, jeûne is used to describe both ordinary religious observances and broader practices of abstaining from food.

Major forms include complete fasts (no food or drink), partial fasts (restricting certain foods or meals), and liquid fasts (only fluids). In secular settings, intermittent fasting has become popular as a dietary approach, with patterns such as time‑restricted eating. In religious practice, jeûne is common in Islam during Ramadan (fasting from dawn to sunset), in Judaism on fast days such as Yom Kippur, and in Christianity during Lent.

Historically, jeûne has been used for penance, purification, health beliefs, or social discipline, and the practice appears across many cultures. In modern times it can be a personal lifestyle choice or part of medical or therapeutic regimens.

Health and safety considerations apply: fasting is not suitable for everyone, and longer fasts should be approached with medical supervision. Risks include dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, dizziness, or hypoglycemia; refeeding after a prolonged fast must be done gradually.