Definition

Adjective: 1. Resembling or showing the spirit of Christ: Characterized by qualities such as love, compassion, humility, forgiveness, and self-sacrifice, as exemplified by Jesus Christ.

Usage

The adjective "christly" is used to describe a person, their actions, character, or qualities that are considered to be in close alignment with the teachings and spirit of Jesus Christ. It is a formal and somewhat literary term, often found in religious or philosophical discussions.

Examples

• Describing a person's character:
  • Her christly patience and forgiveness in the face of such cruelty were an inspiration to everyone.
• Describing behavior or actions:
  • The monk's christly act of giving his only meal to the beggar moved the entire village.
  • We should strive for a more christly approach to resolving conflicts, focusing on reconciliation.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in a contemplative or evaluative context to highlight an ideal standard of moral or spiritual conduct.
• It can be used comparatively to suggest someone's actions are exceptionally virtuous.
  • In his christly compassion, he treated his enemies with the same kindness as his friends.

Variants and Related Words

• Christlike (adjective): This is a more common and frequently used synonym with an identical meaning ("resembling or showing the spirit of Christ").
• Christliness (noun): The quality of being christly.

Synonyms

• Saintly: Very holy or virtuous.
• Beatific: Showing great joy and serenity, often in a saintly way.
• Virtuous: Having high moral standards.

Notes on Meaning

• Primary Meaning: The sole standard meaning of "christly" is to resemble Christ in spirit and action. It does not have secular or alternative common meanings.
• Connotation: The word carries a strongly positive and reverent connotation within a Christian context. It may sound archaic or highly formal in everyday modern speech, where "Christlike" is preferred.

Adjective

1. resembling or showing the spirit of Christ