Theatin

1 definition found

From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 [gcide]:

  Theatin \The"a*tin\, Theatine \The"a*tine\, n. [F. th['e]atin,
     It. theatino.] (R. C. Ch.)
     1. One of an order of Italian monks, established in 1524,
        expressly to oppose Reformation, and to raise the tone of
        piety among Roman Catholics. They hold no property, nor do
        they beg, but depend on what Providence sends. Their chief


        employment is preaching and giving religious instruction.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     Note: Their name is derived from Theate, or Chieti, a city of
           Naples, the archbishop of which was a principal founder
           of the order; but they bore various names; as, Regular
           Clerks of the Community, Pauline Monks, Apostolic
           Clerks, and Regular Clerks of the Divine Providence.
           The order never flourished much out of Italy.
           [1913 Webster]
  
     2. (R. C. Ch.) One of an order of nuns founded by Ursula
        Benincasa, who died in 1618.
        [1913 Webster]