quaker's meeting
Definition
Noun: A "quaker's meeting" refers to a religious gathering of the Society of Friends (Quakers) that is typically characterized by silent meditation and worship, during which participants may speak only when they feel moved by the Spirit. It can also be used informally to describe any quiet or silent gathering.
Usage Examples
- (A religious gathering of Quakers focused on silent worship.)
- (A metaphorical use describing a quiet, uncomfortable silence.)
Advanced Usage
- "to hold a quaker's meeting": to conduct a gathering with prolonged silence, often without formal leadership.
- The committee decided to hold a quaker's meeting to allow for deep reflection before voting. (They met in silence to seek consensus.)
Variants and Related Words
- Quaker (n): a member of the Religious Society of Friends, a Christian group known for pacifism and silent worship.
- She was a devout Quaker who attended meetings regularly. (A member of the Quaker faith.)
Synonyms
- Silent worship: a religious service conducted in silence.
- Meditative gathering: a meeting focused on quiet reflection.
Related Idioms
- Quaker silence: a state of complete quietness, like that observed in Quaker meetings.
- The classroom fell into Quaker silence when the teacher entered. (Absolute silence.)