Definition

Proper noun: * A monastic order of friars: The Augustinian Hermits refers to a specific religious order within the Catholic Church. It is a mendicant order of friars (brothers) who follow the Rule of Saint Augustine. The order was formally established and recognized by the Pope in 1256, unifying several existing hermit groups.

Usage Notes

• The term "Augustinian Hermits" is a proper noun and is typically capitalized. It names a specific historical and religious institution.
• While "hermits" suggests solitude, the order evolved into a community-focused mendicant order, meaning its members live by begging or donations and are active in preaching and pastoral work, often in urban settings.
• It is distinct from other Augustinian orders, such as the Augustinian Canons.

Examples

• The church was historically served by the Augustinian Hermits.
• He joined the Order of the Augustinian Hermits in the 14th century.
• The Augustinian Hermits were formally constituted by papal decree.

Advanced Usage

• The order is also known historically as the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.), which is its formal title today. "Augustinian Hermits" is often used in a historical context.
• A member of this order is called an Augustinian friar.

Variants and Related Words

• Augustinian (noun/adjective): A broader term that can refer to any member or concept related to orders following the Rule of St. Augustine, including the Augustinian Hermits.
• Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.): The modern official name for the order historically known as the Augustinian Hermits.
• Augustinian friar (noun): An individual member of the order.

Synonyms

• Order of Saint Augustine
• Austin Friars (an older English name derived from "Augustinian")

Noun

1. a monastic order of friars established in 1256 by the Pope