bedesman

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Word: Bedesman

Definition: A "bedesman" is a noun that refers to a person who is paid to pray for the soul of another person. This term comes from an old tradition, where someone would be hired to say prayers or perform religious duties for someone who has passed away.

Usage Instructions:

• Context: The word is mostly used in historical or religious contexts. It’s not a common term in everyday conversation, but you might encounter it in literature or discussions about historical practices.

Example:

• "After his father died, he hired a bedesman to pray for his father’s soul every day."

Advanced Usage:

• In historical texts, you might find "bedesman" referring to someone who was part of a larger community of individuals dedicated to prayer, sometimes supported by a charitable organization or church.
• "In medieval England, many wealthy families employed bedesmen to ensure the eternal rest of their loved ones through constant prayer."

Word Variants:

• Bedesmen (plural): Refers to multiple persons who pray for the souls of others.
• Bede: An archaic term that refers to a prayer, from which "bedesman" is derived.

Different Meanings:

• While "bedesman" specifically refers to a person who prays for the deceased, it can also represent someone who is associated with prayer in a broader sense, but this is less common.

Synonyms:

• Pray-er: A more general term for someone who prays.
• Intercessor: Someone who prays on behalf of another person.
• Mendicant: Although this primarily refers to a beggar, in some contexts it can imply someone who relies on others for spiritual support.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs associated with "bedesman," but you might encounter phrases related to prayer, such as:
  • "Say a prayer": To pray, usually for someone else's benefit.
  • "Intercede for someone": To pray on behalf of another person.

Summary:

In summary, a "bedesman" is a specific type of person dedicated to praying for the souls of others, usually in a historical context.

Academic

Noun

1. a person who is paid to pray for the soul of another

Synonyms

• beadsman