River Brethren

plural noun

: members of a body of Christians formed about 1770 in Pennsylvania among Swiss and German immigrants, resembling the Mennonites in doctrines and practices, and now divided into the Brethren in Christ, the Yorker Brethren, and the United Zion Church

Word History

Etymology

from the Susquehanna river, near which the denomination was formed

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