Definition

Noun: A member of the Order of Preachers, a Roman Catholic religious order founded by Saint Dominic. The term specifically refers to a friar of this order, traditionally recognized by the black mantle or cloak worn over a white habit.

Usage Notes

The term "friar preacher" is a formal and historical name for a Dominican friar. It emphasizes the order's dual charism of communal religious life ("friar") and a mission of preaching and teaching ("preacher"). It is often used in historical or ecclesiastical contexts.

Examples

• The medieval university was deeply influenced by the teachings of a learned friar preacher.
• In the painting, the saint is depicted as a friar preacher, with his characteristic black cloak.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metonymically to refer to the Dominican Order itself or its collective mission.

Variants and Related Words

• Dominican (noun): The more common contemporary term for a member of the same order.
• Blackfriar (noun): A historical nickname for a Dominican friar, derived from the black or mantle.

Synonyms

• Dominican
• Blackfriar (historical)

Notes on Different Meanings

This is a specific compound noun with a single, specialized meaning. It does not have separate meanings for "friar" and "preacher" in this context; it functions as a unified title.

Noun

1. a Roman Catholic friar wearing the black mantle of the Dominican order