| methodist | 1. One who observes method. 2. One of an ancient school of physicians who rejected observation and founded their practice on reasoning and theory. 3. One of a sect of Christians, the outgrowth of a small association called the "Holy Club," formed at Oxford University, A.D. 1729, of which the most conspicuous members were John Wesley and his brother Charles; originally so called from the methodical strictness of members of the club in all religious duties. 4. A person of strict piety; one who lives in the exact observance of religious duties; sometimes so called in contempt or ridicule. Origin: Cf. F. Methodiste. See Method. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
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