BLACK FRIAR Meaning and
Definition
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Black Friar is a term that primarily refers to a member of the Dominican Order, an influential and widely known religious order within the Catholic Church. The term "black" alludes to the color of their religious habits, which are traditionally black robes with white collars. The friars of the Dominican Order are known for their commitment to prayer, intellectual pursuits, and preaching.
Historically, the term "black friar" specifically distinguished Dominican friars from other orders, such as the Franciscans (known as "gray friars") and the Carmelites. The Dominican Order, established in the 13th century by Saint Dominic, sought to participate actively in the intellectual life of the Church while maintaining a strong devotion to contemplation and spirituality.
In a broader sense, "black friar" can also refer to a monastery or church affiliated with the Dominican Order. These religious institutions played a crucial role in promoting the order's teachings and missions. Moreover, the term is occasionally used to describe the architectural style associated with Dominican buildings or structures, characterized by simple and austere designs.
Today, the term "black friar" may be used more generally to refer to any individual from the Dominican Order, or occasionally as a metaphorical reference to a contemplative or scholarly person. The enduring significance of the Dominican Order and the influential role of its members in the Church's history have established "black friar" as a significant term within religious and historical contexts.
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One of an order of monks, also called Dominicans.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for BLACK FRIAR
- vlack friar
- nlack friar
- hlack friar
- glack friar
- bkack friar
- bpack friar
- boack friar
- blzck friar
- blsck friar
- blwck friar
- blqck friar
- blaxk friar
- blavk friar
- blafk friar
- bladk friar
- blacj friar
- blacm friar
- blacl friar
- blaco friar
Etymology of BLACK FRIAR
The etymology of the term "Black Friar" can be traced back to the medieval period and refers to the members of an order of Dominican monks known as the Order of Friars Preachers. This religious order, established in the 13th century, was called the "Black Friars" due to the black or dark brown cloaks worn by its members. The term "friar" is derived from the Old French word "frere", meaning "brother", which itself comes from the Latin word "frater". Thus, "Black Friar" essentially means "Black Brother" or "Black Monk", with the color designation referring to their distinctive dark attire.
Similar spelling words for BLACK FRIAR
- black bryony,
- block off,
- blackbeard,
- black person,
- black bear,
- black bean,
- blackboard,
- black vomit,
- black pepper,
- black prince,
- black opal,
- black spruce,
- black flag,
- black bread,
- black bamboo,
- black box,
- Black African,
- black bead,
- blackberry,
- black poplar,
- black bass,
- Black Africa,
- black plague,
- black forest,
- black panthers,
- black buffalo,
- black fly,
- black apricot,
- blackford,
- blackbuck,
- black fox,
- blackfriar,
- black birch,
- blackbird,
- black pea,
- black bee,
- blackburn,
- black bream,
- black panther.
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