Fraticelli

plural noun

Frat·​i·​cel·​li
ˌfratəˈchelē
: any of several small Christian sects existing chiefly in Italy from the 13th to the 15th centuries and having some connection with the Franciscans: such as
a
: a band of seceders from the Franciscan order under the leadership of Angelo de Clareno (1247–1337)
b
: the Spirituals or Spiritual Franciscans who revolted against the order and defied many popes
c
: the followers of Michael of Cesena (1270–1342) who defended a theory of poverty and property for monks and ecclesiastics generally

Word History

Etymology

Italian, plural of fraticello, literally, little brother, diminutive of frate brother

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Cite this Entry

“Fraticelli.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Fraticelli. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

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