Langimage
English

Waldensian

|Wal-den-sian|

C1

/wɔːlˈdɛnsiən/

Christian reform movement

Etymology
Etymology Information

'Waldensian' originates from the name 'Peter Waldo', the founder of the movement, combined with the suffix '-ian' to denote belonging or relating to.

Historical Evolution

'Waldensian' changed from the Old French word 'Vaudois' and eventually became the modern English word 'Waldensian'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it referred specifically to followers of Peter Waldo, but over time it evolved to describe the broader movement and its beliefs.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a member of a Christian movement founded by Peter Waldo in the 12th century, advocating for a return to the simplicity and poverty of the early Church.

The Waldensians faced persecution for their beliefs.

Synonyms

Adjective 1

relating to the Waldensians or their beliefs.

The Waldensian doctrine emphasized poverty and simplicity.

Last updated: 2025/06/28 19:39