recusant

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Dictionary definition of recusant

A person who refuses to comply with an authority or to follow established norms or laws.
"The recusant refused to attend the mandatory religious service."

Detailed meaning of recusant

Historically, the term was used to describe individuals in 16th and 17th century England who refused to attend the Church of England and instead worshipped in their homes as Catholics. These individuals were referred to as "recusants" because they were considered to have recused themselves from the established Church. Today, the term can be used more broadly to refer to anyone who refuses to follow established rules or conventions, whether it be in religion, politics, or any other area of life. A recusant may be seen as defiant, disobedient, or resistant to authority.

Example sentences containing recusant

1. The recusant refused to bow to the oppressive regime's demands.
2. Recusants often face persecution for their refusal to conform.
3. History has its share of recusants who defied societal norms.
4. The recusant's principled stand against injustice inspired others.
5. The recusants of the past paved the way for greater freedoms.
6. The authorities sought to suppress the recusant's dissenting voice.

History and etymology of recusant

The term 'recusant' has its origins in the Latin word 'recusare,' which means 'to refuse' or 'to object.' This Latin verb, in turn, traces its roots to the prefix 're-' meaning 'back' or 'again' and 'causa,' meaning 'cause' or 'reason.' The combination of these elements gives us 'recusare,' which signifies the act of resisting or declining something for a specific cause or reason. Over time, in English, 'recusant' evolved into a noun referring to a person who steadfastly refuses to comply with established authority, norms, or laws, often due to religious or political convictions. This etymology sheds light on the historical context and motivations behind individuals labeled as 'recusants' throughout history.

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Further usage examples of recusant

1. Recusants challenge the status quo and demand change.
2. The recusant's steadfastness in the face of adversity was commendable.
3. Preventing recusance requires addressing underlying grievances.
4. Society should listen to the concerns of recusants.
5. The recusant's noncompliance was seen as an act of resistance.
6. Recusants often become symbols of resistance and defiance.
7. The recusant's actions were a protest against inequality.
8. The authorities' attempts to silence recusants only fuel dissent.
9. The recusant's moral compass guided their decisions.
10. Recusants have played pivotal roles in shaping history.
11. The recusant's refusal to conform was an act of courage.
12. Society should strive to address the grievances of recusants.
13. The recusant's dissent challenged the established order.
14. Recusants are often advocates for marginalized voices.
15. The recusant's stand was a beacon of hope for the oppressed.
16. The government's crackdown on recusants raised concerns about civil liberties.
17. The recusant's rebellion was driven by a deep sense of injustice.
18. Society should engage in dialogue with recusants to find common ground.
19. The recusant's refusal to comply was a powerful form of protest.
20. Recusants uphold their principles in the face of adversity.
21. The authorities viewed the recusant as a threat to their control.
22. Recusants challenge us to question established norms and laws.
23. The recusant's resistance was fueled by a desire for a just society.
24. Society should recognize the contributions of recusants to social progress.