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mendicant

adjective

/ˈmɛn dɪ kənt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of mendicant

Relating to begging or the practice of living by asking for alms or charity, typically due to a state of extreme poverty and destitution.
"The mendicant friar lived a life of poverty and begged for his daily bread."

Detailed meaning of mendicant

When someone or a religious order is characterized as mendicant, it implies a reliance on the generosity of others for basic sustenance, often involving a vow of poverty and a life devoted to spiritual or charitable pursuits rather than material wealth. This term is commonly associated with certain religious orders, such as mendicant friars, who take a vow of poverty and sustain themselves through alms and charity while dedicating their lives to serving others or pursuing a spiritual path. "Mendicant" underscores the idea of dependency on the goodwill of others and a commitment to a life of simplicity and selflessness, often for religious or humanitarian purposes.

Example sentences containing mendicant

1. The mendicant monk relied on the generosity of others for his sustenance.
2. They encountered a group of mendicant beggars on the street.
3. The mendicant lifestyle required embracing simplicity and detachment.
4. They donated food and clothing to support the mendicant community.
5. The mendicant friar lived a life of poverty and service to others.
6. They were inspired by the mendicant traditions of selflessness and humility.

History and etymology of mendicant

The adjective 'mendicant' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'mendicans,' which is the present participle of 'mendicare,' meaning 'to beg.' 'Mendicant' is used to describe a state or practice related to begging or living by asking for alms or charity, typically due to a state of extreme poverty and destitution. It is often associated with religious orders whose members take vows of poverty and rely on the charity of others for their sustenance. The term embodies the idea of dependency on the generosity of those more fortunate, highlighting the vulnerability of individuals or groups who are forced to beg for their basic needs. 'Mendicant' serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the marginalized and disadvantaged in society and underscores the importance of compassion and charitable giving.

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Further usage examples of mendicant

1. The mendicant orders played a significant role in caring for the poor.
2. They admired the mendicant spirit of relying on the goodwill of others.
3. The mendicant hermit chose solitude and contemplation over worldly possessions.
4. They learned about the mendicant traditions of different religious cultures.
5. The mendicant way of life was characterized by simplicity and detachment.
6. They offered a warm meal to the mendicant traveler passing through their village.
7. The mendicant community provided support to those in need.
8. They listened to the mendicant's tales of his journey and experiences.
9. The mendicant lifestyle challenged societal norms of accumulation and wealth.
10. They recognized the dedication and commitment of the mendicant order.
11. The mendicant beggars sought alms in the town square.
12. They explored the historical significance of mendicant movements.
13. The mendicant tradition called for compassion and empathy towards the less fortunate.
14. They practiced the values of the mendicant philosophy in their daily lives.