The word "Lollard" is a term coined during the 14th century to label followers of John Wycliffe's ideas, who believed in translating the Bible into English. The correct pronunciation of the word is [ˈlɒl.əd], with the letter "o" sounding more like a short "a" and the emphasis on the second syllable. The phonetic transcription indicates that the first consonant is pronounced as "l", followed by an "o" sound similar to "aw", and lastly, a soft "d" that sounds almost like "t" at times.
Lollard refers to a member or adherent of a religious movement that emerged in the 14th century in England, known as Lollardy. The term "Lollard" is derived from the Middle English word "loller," meaning to mumble, mumble prayers, or to sing in a murmuring tone. Lollardy was considered a form of dissent or heresy within the Roman Catholic Church, challenging various practices and doctrines.
Lollards, as followers of this movement, rejected certain aspects of medieval Catholicism, advocating for reform and greater simplicity in religious worship. They criticized the authority and wealth of the clergy, challenged the doctrine of transubstantiation (the belief that the bread and wine used in the Eucharist became the actual body and blood of Christ), and emphasized the importance of personal interpretation of the Bible rather than relying solely on the clergy's teachings.
Lollardy gained traction among various segments of society, including the lower classes, artisans, and some members of the nobility. However, it faced significant opposition from both the Church and the state, and Lollards were frequently persecuted and labeled heretics. Despite sustained efforts to suppress Lollardy, its influence continued to be felt throughout the 15th and 16th centuries, and some of its ideas contributed to the broader Reformation movement in England.
In summary, a Lollard is a supporter or follower of Lollardy, a medieval English movement that sought to reform the Roman Catholic Church and challenged its practices and teachings.
One of a sect of early reformers in Germany in the 13th and 14th centuries who went about preaching reformation of life, and having excited the indignation of the Church by not joining any of the regular orders of the clergy or monks, were so called in contempt; in Eng., a follower of Wickliffe. Note.-The origin of the term Lollard is very much disputed, but the above appears to the author as the most probable.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Lollard" is derived from the Middle English term "lollen", which means "to mumble" or "to mumble prayers". The term first appeared in the 14th century as a derogatory nickname for a group of followers of John Wycliffe, an English theologian and reformer. The Lollards were known for their emphasis on vernacular scripture and their critical views towards certain teachings and practices of the Roman Catholic Church. Over time, the term "Lollard" came to be associated with heresy and religious dissent in general. The origin of the term "lollen" itself is uncertain, but it likely reflects the way the Lollards were perceived by their opponents or how their prayers were thought to sound.