The word "jesuitical" is spelled with "J-e-s-u-i-t-i-c-a-l." The pronunciation is /ˌdʒɛsjuˈɪtɪkəl/ which means it is pronounced with four syllables. The first syllable is "jes" and the "u" is silent. It is followed by "ui" which is pronounced as "w-i" sound. The last two syllables are pronounced as "ti-cal" with the emphasis on the "ti" syllable. "Jesuitical" means to be cunning or deceitful, often in a religious context, and is derived from the Jesuit order of the Catholic Church.
Jesuitical is an adjective that is derived from the term Jesuit, which refers to a member of the Society of Jesus, a Roman Catholic religious order founded by Saint Ignatius Loyola in the 16th century. Jesuitical, however, does not exclusively relate to the Jesuits but has a broader connotation that describes certain characteristics or behaviors often associated with Jesuits, especially in a negative sense.
The term is commonly used to describe someone who is cunning, deceitful, or sly, particularly in matters of religion, politics, or diplomacy. It suggests a person who employs clever and intricate reasoning to achieve their goals, often prioritizing their own interests and beliefs over others. Jesuitical individuals are often seen as experts in manipulation, adept at using ambiguous or sophistical arguments to defend their positions or to advance their own agenda.
The adjective also implies a level of intellectual sophistication and a tendency to engage in complex and intricate discussions, frequently employing subtlety and casuistry. Jesuitical approaches are characterized by an emphasis on casuistry, which is the resolution of moral dilemmas through careful reasoning and the consideration of particular circumstances.
Therefore, when one describes a person, action, or argument as jesuitical, they are often implying a sense of untrustworthiness, cunning, or sophistry, suggesting that the individual in question might not possess genuine or sincere intentions and may be using subtle and deceitful means to achieve their desired ends.
Pert. to the Jesuits; crafty; deceitful.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Jesuitical" derives from the term "Jesuit", which refers to a member of the Society of Jesus, a religious order within the Roman Catholic Church. The term comes from the Latin word "Iesuita", which originated from the Old Latin "Iesu", meaning "Jesus". Jesuits are known for their commitment to education, intellectual pursuits, and missionary work.
Over time, the adjective "Jesuitical" developed to describe qualities associated with the Jesuits, their doctrines, or their methods. It often carries connotations of cunning, craftiness, casuistry, or subtle and sophisticated reasoning. The term has been used both positively and negatively, depending on the context and perspective.