RANTERS Meaning and
Definition
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Ranters, in the context of historical religious movements, refer to a group of radical religious dissenters that emerged in England during the mid-17th century, particularly during the turbulent period of the English Civil War. This term primarily pertains to religious sects that manifested radical beliefs and practices, characterized by their passionate, emotive, and extravagant verbal expression.
Ranters were distinguished by their rejection of conventional religious systems and their tendency to openly criticize and challenge established religious authorities. These dissenters were known for their outspokenness, employing a fervent and often contentious style of preaching and public speaking. Ranters criticized the established Church, its hierarchy, and the religious institutions of their time, advocating for a more egalitarian and individualistic approach to spirituality.
The term "rant" itself implies a passionate, forceful, and uncontrolled verbal expression of strong emotions or opinions. In that sense, Ranters were regarded as individuals who indulged in excessive or exaggerated speech while expressing their religious beliefs, often generating controversy and attracting attention. The movement, though relatively short-lived, left a significant mark on English history by contributing to the broader climate of religious dissent and challenging the authority of the Church during a period of political and social upheaval.
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A term applied in contempt and reproach to the Primitive Methodists, a fanatical religious sect which arose in 1645.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for RANTERS
Etymology of RANTERS
The word "Ranters" originates from the term "rant", which has a Middle English origin. In the 16th and 17th centuries, "rant" meant to speak, act, or behave extravagantly, noisily, or violently. It is believed that the term was initially used to describe the religious practices of a group of radical dissenters in England during the mid-17th century, known as the "Ranters". These individuals were said to engage in enthusiastic, emotional, and often expletive-laden religious gatherings, which involved ecstatic and uncontrolled behavior. The term "Ranters" was likely coined to reflect the boisterous and fervent nature of their religious activities.
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