Cathar
English
Etymology
Recorded since the 16th century; from Medieval Latin Catharī, from late Greek καθαροί (katharoí, “the Pure”), plural of Ancient Greek καθαρός (katharós, “pure”).
Noun
Cathar (plural Cathari or Cathars)
- A member of certain so self-styled Novatian and other Christian sects embracing a form of dualism and extraordinary practices, persecuted by Roman Catholics as heretics.
- The Albigenses, famous Cathars in and around Albi (southern France), were eradicated in a bloody ‘crusade’.
Usage notes
Most often used in the plural.
Derived terms
Related terms
Translations
a member of Christian sect