CURTAL FRIAR Meaning and
Definition
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A "Curtal friar" is a term that refers to a specific type of friar within the Catholic Church. The term "curtal" is derived from the Middle English word "curtail," meaning short or truncated, while "friar" pertains to a member of a religious order who lives a mendicant or monastic lifestyle.
In essence, a curtal friar is a friar who has chosen to reside in a smaller or abbreviated monastic cell. This term is particularly associated with the Franciscan order, a mendicant religious community founded by Saint Francis of Assisi. Unlike typical friars who typically occupied larger monastic quarters, curtal friars opted for smaller cells or dwellings, necessitating them to live with less space and fewer amenities.
Historically, curtal friars were renowned for exemplifying a stricter form of monastic living, emphasizing simplicity, self-denial, and austerity. They often practiced personal poverty more rigorously, owning fewer possessions, and abstaining from worldly pleasures. This dedicated adherence to a minimalist way of life aimed to foster spiritual growth and detachment from material goods.
The term "curtal friar" has also been used metaphorically in literature and cultural contexts to depict someone who embodies strict discipline, asceticism, or a withdrawn lifestyle. It may connote a sense of seriousness or solemnity, often associated with those who prioritize a contemplative and disciplined existence.
Common Misspellings for CURTAL FRIAR
- xurtal friar
- vurtal friar
- furtal friar
- durtal friar
- cyrtal friar
- chrtal friar
- cjrtal friar
- cirtal friar
- c8rtal friar
- c7rtal friar
- cuetal friar
- cudtal friar
- cuftal friar
- cuttal friar
- cu5tal friar
- cu4tal friar
- curral friar
- curfal friar
- curgal friar
- curyal friar
Etymology of CURTAL FRIAR
The term "curtal friar" originated in Middle English in the 14th century. "Curtal" is an alteration of the word "kirtle", which was a type of tunic or gown worn by monks. It is derived from the Old French word "cortpel", meaning a short cloak or tunic. "Friar" refers to a member of a religious order, typically associated with the Roman Catholic Church. The term "curtal friar" was used specifically to describe a friar who wore a short or truncated habit, distinguishing them from other types of friars who wore longer robes. Over time, the term "curtal friar" became associated with friars who were known for their mischievous or ribald behavior, hence the character of the "curtal friar" in Chaucer's Canterbury Tales.
