Donatist

noun

Don·​a·​tist -tə̇st 

plural -s

: a member of a schismatic party of Christians in North Africa from 311 to the 7th century who held that the validity of the sacraments depends on the spiritual state of the minister, that sanctity is essential for church membership, and that all who joined their group should be rebaptized

Word History

Etymology

Medieval Latin Donatista, from Donatus, 4th century bishop of Carthage + Latin -ista -ist

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now