Definition

Proper noun: * Thomas Merton: An American Trappist monk, theologian, mystic, poet, social activist, and author. He is a significant figure in 20th-century spirituality and interfaith dialogue.

Usage

• The name "Thomas Merton" is used to refer to the historical person, his body of work, or his ideas.
• It functions as a singular proper noun and does not change form.

Examples

• As the subject:
  • Thomas Merton wrote extensively about contemplative prayer and social justice.
  • Thomas Merton's autobiography, The Seven Storey Mountain, became a bestseller.
• As an object:
  • Many scholars study the works of Thomas Merton.
  • The conference focused on the legacy of Thomas Merton.

Advanced Usage

• "Mertonian": Pertaining to or characteristic of Thomas Merton or his thought.
  • The essay explored the Mertonian perspective on solitude and community.
• Used attributively to describe concepts, themes, or works associated with him.
  • The retreat followed a Merton-inspired format of silence and reading.

Variants and Related Words

• Merton, Thomas (alternative bibliographic form).
• Trappist: A member of the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance, the monastic order to which Thomas Merton belonged.
• Contemplative: A person dedicated to contemplative prayer and life, a central theme in Merton's writing.

Synonyms

• Monk (specifically a Trappist monk).
• Author / Writer.
• Mystic.
• Theologian.

Related Phrases

• "The Seven Storey Mountain": The title of Thomas Merton's famous autobiography.
• "The Sign of Jonas": Title of another significant work by Merton detailing his early monastic life.
• "Contemplative in a World of Action": Title of a book reflecting his views on engagement and solitude.

Noun

1. United States religious and writer (1915-1968)