Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A Protestant Christian denomination: A distinct religious group within Christianity, characterized by specific beliefs and practices that differ from mainstream Christian denominations. It was formally established in the United States in the late 19th century.
   • A millenarian restorationist movement: The group emphasizes a return to what it considers original Christian teachings, anticipates the imminent establishment of God's Kingdom on Earth, and is known for its distinctive methods of evangelism.

Usage and Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses differ from those of many other Christian churches.
  • A group of Jehovah's Witnesses was offering literature near the subway station.
  • She has been one of Jehovah's Witnesses since her childhood.

Advanced Usage and Notes

• The term is always used in the plural form ("Witnesses") when referring to the members collectively. The singular form ("a Jehovah's Witness") refers to an individual member.
• The group is known for its door-to-door evangelism, distribution of literature (such as and magazines), and its refusal of certain medical procedures (like blood transfusions) based on scriptural interpretation.
• They do not celebrate most holidays (e.g., Christmas, birthdays) or participate in political activities or military service.

Variants and Related Terms

• Witness (informal): A shortened, informal way to refer to a member.
  • He's a Witness.
• The Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society: The legal and publishing corporation used by the group.
• Kingdom Hall: The term for their local places of worship.

Synonyms and Related Concepts

• Christian denomination: A broader category to which the group belongs.
• Millenarian group: A group that emphasizes a future thousand-year reign of Christ.
• Restorationist movement: A movement seeking to restore primitive Christianity.

Key Distinctions

• Not "Jehovah's Witness": The singular form is not used as the name of the denomination itself. The denominational name is strictly plural: Jehovah's Witnesses.
• Capitalization: Both "Jehovah's" and "Witnesses" are always capitalized, as it is a proper noun.

Noun

1. Protestant denomination founded in the United States by Charles Taze Russell in 1884