Definition

Noun: - A member of a sect: A person who belongs to a religious or political group that has separated from a larger body and often has distinct beliefs or practices. The term often implies a strong, sometimes narrow, adherence to the group's specific doctrines.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The small community was composed of devout sectaries who lived apart from mainstream society.
  • He was known as a fervent sectary, always ready to defend his group's unique interpretations.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: The term was used historically, especially in the 17th century, to describe nonconformists or dissenters from the established church, such as Puritans or Independents.
  • During the English Civil War, many sectaries advocated for religious freedom.
• Pejorative Connotation: It can carry a slightly negative or critical tone, suggesting excessive zeal or separatism.
  • His critics dismissed him as a mere sectary, unwilling to consider broader perspectives.

Variants and Related Words

• Sectarian (noun/adjective): A member of a sect, or having the characteristics of a sect (e.g., narrow-minded, partisan).
  • The conflict was fueled by sectarian violence.
• Sect (noun): The group itself; a body of persons adhering to a particular religious or philosophical doctrine.

Synonyms

• Adherent: A supporter or follower of a particular idea or person.
• Devotee: A person who is very interested in and enthusiastic about someone or something.
• Partisan (in a religious context): A strong, sometimes biased, supporter of a party, cause, or sect.

Related Phrases

• Sectarian strife: Conflict between different religious or political sects.
  • The region has a long history of sectarian strife.
• Sectarian interests: The concerns or advantages of a particular sect, often placed above more general interests.
  • The politician was accused of promoting sectarian interests over national unity.

Noun

1. a member of a sect
   • most sectarians are intolerant of the views of any other sect